WordPress

Theme and plugin development standards following WordPress coding conventions.

Formatting & Naming

  • Follow WordPress PHP coding standards (tabs for indentation)
  • Use snake_case for function names: get_custom_post_data()
  • Prefix all functions, classes, and globals with unique identifier
  • Use descriptive hook names: my_plugin_before_content_display
  • Follow WordPress file naming conventions

Hooks & Functions

  • Use proper WordPress hooks instead of direct file modifications
  • Sanitize and validate all user input
  • Escape output data with appropriate functions: esc_html(), esc_attr()
  • Use WordPress functions over PHP equivalents when available
  • Check user capabilities before executing admin functions

Best Practices & Tools

  • Use WordPress coding standards with PHPCS
  • Follow the WordPress Plugin/Theme directory guidelines
  • Implement proper nonce verification for forms
  • Use WordPress transients for caching
  • Test with WordPress debug mode enabled

References