Whenever I talk to people about blogging and websites, there are inevitably questions that arise. Here's the 411 on the series and some answers to those frequently asked questions. Watch the video or read the following, whichever you prefer.
What does this course cover?
This course is free. It is the updated, revised, expanded and simplified version of my popular series, originally written in 2010. A lot has changed since then, so an update is definitely in order. We'll walk through the process of creating a blog or website from scratch, step by step.
Related: Feel free to dive deeper into any topic as we go. Here are some highlighted posts from: Nuts & Bolts, Passion & Writing, Design & Usability, Marketing & Traffic, Networking & Social Media, Productivity & Organization and Making Money.
Can't see the video? Watch it here.
Is it for anyone?
Yep! This is DIY website creation, but don't let that scare you. I'm telling you, anyone can do this. As with any DIY project, if you put in a little time and energy, in exchange, you'll save TONS of money and get the satisfaction of knowing you did it yourself. And so much fun stuff to learn!
Related: Totally new to this blogging thing? Check out my Start Page to get an idea of what this site is all about.
I'm not techy. Will I be lost?
I like non-techy types. My goal is to teach anyone how to blog or create a website from the very beginning. I've taught countless people these steps, most with no prior web building knowledge.
If I complete the course, what kind of site will I have at the end?
The type of blog or website you'll have is a self-hosted WordPress site, (not to be confused with a site at WordPress.com, more on that later). Self-hosted WordPress sites are highly popular and highly recommended, not just by me, but by bloggers and website owners everywhere.
What if I don't want a blog, but just a website (or vice versa)?
You can use WordPress to blog or you can use it as a traditional website. Setup is exactly the same. So either way, I've got ya covered. 
Related: How to Create a Website (Not a Blog)
What's the difference between a blog and a website anyway?
A blog is a type of website that is updated regularly, with posts listed in reverse chronological order (newest first). I will use the term "website" to refer to the type of site that is static, that is, not updated regularly. A static website would be used like a brochure, providing basic information about yourself, your company or your organization. For example, if you want to start a virtual assistant business or you want a website for your existing business with basic info like services, pricing and contact info, a static website would be the way to go.
Related: Blogging is Like Ice Cream – An explanation of what blogging is and how it works using ice cream as an analogy. Nothing is bad if ice cream is involved, that's what I think.
Who are you and why should I listen to you?
I'm Amy. I created my first website in 2004. I am completely self-taught (read: zero prior computer knowledge) and if I can do it, you can too–except you won't have to be googling like a crazy person since I lay it all out for ya. For me, blogging started out as a hobby and has grown into a full-time job. I've listed my current income streams here.
Related: About me, The Girl Behind the Geek
How much will my new site cost?
There are two expenses you'll incur off the bat. Everything after that is optional, which I will note as we go along.
- The first is domain registration which will cost $0-$20 per year. Domains must be renewed at least annually.
- The second is hosting which will cost $10 or less per month, depending on how you choose to pay for it (a year or a month at a time).
In other words, if you break it down, the cost to have a great website is $5-$12 a month. Not bad. Not bad at all.
Note that you are not paying me. I will tell you exactly which services I pay for, use personally and recommend. If you choose to purchase the services via the links I provide in this series, I will receive a small commission from those companies as a thank you for the referral. I'm what is called an affiliate, but of course, me being an affiliate doesn't cost you anything extra. Read my full Disclosure Policy here.
Can't I start a blog or website for free?
Yep. There are a lot of free blogging services out there and I've tried most of them. However, the old saying "you get what you pay for" is true here. So, my method requires a small investment, but you'll get a WHOLE lot more than if you go with free.
The only times I recommend starting a free blog is (a) if you are only interested in hobby blogging or (b) you're not sure if blogging is for you and you want to test drive it. It is possible to switch down the road, but it can be a hassle.
I'm in a financial pickle. How can I make money blogging?
It is true you can make money blogging, but it's not likely to happen quickly. Think of this as a marathon not a sprint. If you need cash right away, I recommend working a traditional job until your online venture can support you. Everyone's experience is different, but I wouldn't expect to make enough to live on for at least a year or two and extra spending money after 6 months or so.
Related: Explore my Making Money posts.
Is there anything special I need to start a website?
There's not a lot you'll need other than some time, patience, stick-to-itiveness and willingness to learn. You've obviously got access to the internet which is good. In a few posts you'll need to pay to get set up (a domain and hosting, those expenses I mentioned earlier).
What if I have questions during the process?
First, I have a rule and it's this: there are no dumb questions! Everyone who has ever created their own blog or website has been exactly where you are, so don't be shy. We all can relate. I do get a lot of questions, so I can't answer them all personally (especially emails), but if you ask me on Facebook, I try to answer as many as I can there since it'll help others too. You can follow me on Facebook here (or just click the "Like" button in the sidebar).
You can also subscribe by entering your email address here (or in the sidebar). That way, every time I publish a new post, you'll get it sent straight to your email. It makes it easy to keep up that way. If you decide at some point you're no longer interested in getting the emails, simply click the "Unsubscribe" link at the bottom of any of them.
Related: Glossary of Blogging Terms and Archives.
What if I want to work ahead?
An overachiever are you? Oh I kid. I'd be asking the same question. You are more than welcome to work ahead or bounce around as much as you'd like. As I mentioned, this is an updated version of a series I did previously, so you can always check that out for an general idea of where we're going. Note that there will be major updates though. Also, browse the categories and topics in the sidebar and visit my archives for lots more!
Can I share this with others?
OK, I made this question up, but yes, if you know of anyone who wants to start a blog or a website, please let them know! You can use any of the buttons below to share this around the web or email it. Thanks!
Other posts in this series
- How to Start a Blog or Website: Intro & FAQ
- How to Start a Blog or Website: Cheat Sheet
- How to Find (or Refind) Your Passion
- How to Decide What to Blog About: What Works for Readers?
- How to Decide What to Blog About: What Works for You?
- Understand Branding: 4 Tips
- Understand Keywords: Increase the Odds of Getting Found
- Writing Great Content: 3 Tips
- How to Write a Killer About Page
- 12 Blog Organization Tips
- How to Choose a Domain Name: 12 Tips
- How to Register a Domain Name
- How to Set Up Hosting and WordPress
- How to Change Your Nameservers
- How to Add a New User in WordPress
- How to Optimize Your WordPress Settings
- How to Install a Plugin
- My Favorite Plugins
- How to Get & Optimize a Feedburner Feed
- How to Choose a WordPress Theme
- How to Install a WordPress Theme
- Elegant Themes for WordPress
- How to Install Google Analytics
- How to Use WordPress: Tips & Tricks
- How to Start a Blog or Website: 10 Tips for New Bloggers
YAY! I'm so excited for this series. I just started blogging and used your 2010 series to get me to the point I'm at. I'm looking forward to following along and learning what has changed and additional tips! Thanks for doing this.
Glad you'll be joining me!
I am exactly where you are, CM! I started the blog based on the 2010 series and I still need help. I am so excited to get to be a part of the new series, Amy. You are too cute, BTW! Love your bedspread. =)
CM, your blog looks GREAT and your miracle is adorable! Thanks for sharing your stuff with the world.
Jenni, I was going to say the same thing…that I loved Amy's bedspread…haha!
Yea! I agree with Champion's Mommy. I just found the older version and even though I haven't finished it I launched my blog three weeks ago. So I'm soooo excited to do this new course. (I wanted so badly to plug my new blog, magooszoo.com but don't know if it's good form or not. ☺ If not Amy, please delete this part or let me know and I'll repost without it. I so love your blog course.) Also a question, I view you on my smart phone and no subscribe button shows up. Am I missing it?
Good tips! Really informing and useful for those who are starting to blog. I also appreciate your points about blogging. Thanks for posting!
a "new" commandment – "thou shalt not use free blogging services to make money" – good article!!
I'm starting the process to create a new blog (that I will pay for, this time, instead of using WordPress's free service). I'm going through your previous series, but can't find an easy way to go from one post to the next. I always have to go back to the "Start a Blog" link on the left. Is that intentional? I'd love to be able to just click to the next post in the series.
No, definitely not intentional. This new series has a list at the bottom "Other Posts in This Series" which should make it easier to work through.
I've been thinking about and wanting to start a blog…I guess this is my answer to do it (since you'll be helping me get started)! Thanks in advance to the advice and tips!
I am so excited about this opportunity, I am in the process of starting a blog and you are God sent. I am open to all the
help I can receive and look forward to new friendships as well.
You're welcome, Christy!
Thank you! I'm excited to follow this series as I've found the previous one to be a valuable reference as I'm just getting serious about blogging.
I want to change the name of my blog ( I use blogger), switch over to wordpress and just use a free one for now. I want a more streamlined, clean look. Is there hope for me? I also want to make a website for my husband who just became a charter fishing captain (side job). We need to come up with a name for his business and would like to use the same name for his domain name also. We want a name that is not already taken either by domain or otherwise. Will I be able to do this with your advice/help? Thanks for your help!!!
Hi Yolanda, not sure if I followed all your plans, but the one thing that stuck out to me was that you won't be able to monetize at all if you use a free WordPress blog (set up at WordPress.com). If you wanted a free blog but still want to monetize, I'd recommend you stick with Blogger. I hope that helps!
How fun! I've been blogging for a little over a year and have been using Blogger. I tried WordPress on my own and got frustrated. I couldn't get it to look the way I wanted and gave up. It'll be helpful to get your tips for setting it up.
How often will you be running your posts? Weekly? I currently have a "free" blog but am thinking I should set up a better sight if I do want to get my long arm quilting business going so I am intrigued. It looks as though you are just starting this right?
I'll be posting twice a week for this series (probably Tues & Thurs). Yes, there are just two posts in the series as of this one. Check out "Other Posts in this Series" under the share buttons for the list as it grows.
Amy, I have taken two Internet Marketing courses and have learned a lot about building websites, but I have learned a tremendous amount from you. You make it so easy to understand and I love your site. I just started a blog and your guidance and advice has become my guidebook. Can't wait to see what new things you have added. thanks for such a great place to learn.
Thanks so much, Sheila! I'm so glad it's helpful–that's definitely my goal. Glad you'll be joining me this time around.
Amy…I am following you like a student to a teacher!
Thanks for the time and efforts you put into this for us newbies. Question for you….my blog is on Blogger….can you tell me the difference in mine and WordPress? What additional benefits does WP have. Now I wish I would of had it made with WP. The gal that made it called it a faux blog. When you get a free moment (ha,right) can you look at my blog and give me your thoughts as to what could be runner bettter in a different format. I have only had it a year or so and don't post much cuz I keep forgetting how to AND it's a huge time commitment. Duh, right,,,,I know! Anyhooo, thanks again…
Oh…I have posted your articles many tmes on my fb page and google + Hope you have gotten many new followers out of it!
Kelly
Hey Kelly! I wrote a post a while ago about switching from Blogger to WordPress. I think I answered most of your questions in that series.
You are a Godsend! Thank for making this so easy to understand. I've had a personal blog for a while but am now looking to go in a more focused direction. I know there are all these tools and ways to do things, but don't really understand it all. Thank you for being my translator!
So glad it's helpful, Kelli, and thank you for stopping by!
Amy I wish I had started with WordPress instead of blogger. Now that I've been blogging for almost 4 years I've learned so much. I'm working on creating tabs and adding content to incorporate my site to be a blog and website. I get exhausted thinking about all I need to do while still keeping up with my blog posts, replying to others, work and family. There just aren't enough hours in the day. Hopefully blogger will be able to continue to provide me with the service I need so I can stay put.
I'm going to read your tutorial anyone in case I missed something.
"There just aren't enough hours in the day" < –Yes, I totally agree. I think I could sit her 24/7 and still not come close to what I'd like to do! Just one step at a time, that's all we can do, right?
(Plus, I don't think we'll get to the end of our lives and say, "Man, I sure wish I spent more time on my blog!")
I sometimes get wrapped up in having to get a post out especially when I see others whipping them out daily. Would anyone really miss me if I forgot a post? Who knows but that's what keeps me blogging away.. Quite frankly 99.9% of my business comes from my blogging. With all the changes though and updates I need to do I would be online 24/7 spending little time with my family so blogging has to take a backseat every now and then. Wish there was an easier way besides paying someone to do it for me.
I hear ya, Vicki. It can be quite overwhelming. It's all about letting go of the good for the best I think.
"one step at a time"
Thanks for the reminder!
Hi Amy, I am glad you included a link to go back to your earlier series info. I was about 2/3 of the way through it and wasn't sure if I had missed a step so thank you for keeping it available! Also, you are wonderful at responding to email questions and that really helps when I get stuck and can not figure out what to do. Thank you and keep doing a great job!
Thanks Sandra. I hope this new series will fill in some gaps add some more useful stuff to the mix.
You've got everything i needed to start my own blog.
Thanks a lot Amy. 
You're welcome!
Alright, I'm not just starting, but I feel like I'm starting again with a migration from Blogger to WordPress. I have a few questions for you:
My blog name is not available in a .com. Should I just go with a .org?
If a .com is the way to go, should I sacrifice having the best name to have a .com? (My blog is A Heart for Home, aheartforhome is not available, but domains like heart4home are.)
Would it be better to just change my blog name with the migration? My husband and I have decided upon a name, but of course it would be easier to just keep our original. This would also affect Twitter and Pinterest usernames.
Thanks so much for all your help!
I'm not new to blogging, but I'm just transferring over to WordPress from Blogger. Thankfully, someone is doing the transfer for me, but I have a few questions about choosing a domain name.
My current blog name is not available. My current URL is, but is pretty bad (hyphen, number for word) since I didn't know what I was doing when I started out. Should I purchase my blog name as a .org, .net, or .co? Or should I choose an alternative including either a hyphen or a number as a .com? The third option would be to change my blog name completely in the hopes of that being the best for the long run. My husband and I have decided on a name and it is available, I'm just not sure how much damage that will do to my blog. A name change would also affect my Twitter and Pinterest usernames (and of course all of the watermarks on my photos). Our blog is not huge, but not tiny either. Our number have actually had a fairly large jump in August with over 25,000 unique visitors. Do you think it's worth it to change for the long term?
Also, if we purchase a .com, should we buy the .org and .net of the same name?
I am literally BRAND NEW to the blogging process…. I have been on your site, I don't know how often in the last couple of weeks doing research…. I started actually putting my blog together Sunday….so….four days ago…. I seem to have many more drafts than posts.
…. Thanks, for all your help…. I couldn't have done it without your tips….. Anyway, my question is… when it comes to posting pictures on your blog is it "Legal" to pull pictures off of the internet to post on your blog (i.e google images)? Thanks again!
Welcome, Meaghean! No, it's not legal. Here's more about finding free images to use and using them legally.
Amy, sorry about all the duplicate comments. They weren't showing up for some reason so I tried again, oops!
No worries! Sometimes comments get caught in the moderation queue so that's why they don't show up at first. Sorry for the frustration!
Boy, timing is everything! This week, I made the decision to start learning how to blog-I am definitely a beginner! Lo and behold, Amy, your site came right up! I am so excited to be learning how to do this. Thank you so much for your expertise!
So glad we found each other.
I hope it's helpful, Jenni!
I am new to blogging and am finding it hard to find where to start. I almost got myself in real trouble today and almost bought a website that said was $4.95 a month and then said it was going to charge me $250 up front. I said no and began doing more research making sure I am ready for everything before I invest any amount of money into anything. So I look forward to learning in this course.
Amy, I paid to have a website made and managed. I was unhappy with the management and have made arrangements to have my website name moved to another host. I have decided I want to manage my own site and start a blog using the same name. However, when I went to WordPress the could only get cottoncountryquilter.com for my blog. So now I have a domain name cottoncountryquilting.com for my website and cottoncountryquilter.com for my blog. Is there any possible way to merge the two and take control of all the managing, etc. or do I need to start from scratch.
Beth
Well, it's a bit complicated to know the ins and outs of your specific situation, but I'm assuming your current website is not on WordPress?? If that's the case, you could definitely rebuild it on WordPress and then attach your blog to it as well; that's what I would do. Your domain is not fixed to your website or blog so it is very possible to have it all under one domain. It sounds like you might need to hire someone to make all the switching for you if you're not comfortable doing it yourself in which case I would hire a designer to build it and then take over the management of it from that point.
Amy, The only thing I know for sure is that the domain name for my site was purchased at GoDaddy.com. Everyone keeps talking to me about hosting. Yours was by far the best explanation I have come across. I cannot thank you enough for making this whole techy stuff understandable. I will continue with my learning and may be back for more info. Blessings, Beth
1. Domain name is just like address to your home
2. Web-hosting also known as web-space is a place where you will keep your stuff of ready to served to your visitor. Web-hosting come along with some perks like
1GB of Web-space (Which is lot more than sufficient),
2GB of Monthly Data Transfer (Which is also sufficient to serve hungry for thought crowd),
Unlimited Databases (One Database is sufficient, or two atmost),
5 Email and alot more (One is more than sufficient, Even I have never used one).
Best part is a Script installer to Install WordPress and Start Blogging.
You may contact me if you want to – just ask madam Amy.
Good Moring, As per my IST.
You have a very nice blog, and I also gone through some reviews of your book. One work to express my feeling- "Impressive".
There is a link from your blog : http://amylynnandrews.com/tell-your-time-tools/
I think that you have started from step 2 : Roles & Goals which should be step 1.
Take this in account, and correct that error – if it is. Otherwise, ignore it.
Hi Amy,
Thanks for making all this information available, I really appreciate it.
I am a little confused about self-hosting a blog or website, does that mean I have to have it on a computer of my own? Because if it does I'm afraid I can't do it; my internet goes down periodically and that would be very irritating to someone trying to use my website.