To create a menu in WordPress with a classic theme, go to Appearance, Menus, create a menu, add pages, posts, categories or custom links, drag them to reorder or nest them, choose the display location (for example Primary) and save. With a block theme, edit the Navigation block in Appearance, Editor. With Elementor Pro, add the Nav Menu widget to your Theme Builder header.
- Classic themes: Appearance, Menus.
- Block themes: Appearance, Editor, Navigation block.
- Elementor headers: Nav Menu widget.
- Drag items right to create dropdowns.
- Keep the main menu to five to seven items.
How do you build a menu step by step?
- Go to Appearance, Menus (classic themes).
- Click create a new menu and name it, for example “Main”.
- Tick pages to add, or add custom links (like a WhatsApp link).
- Drag to reorder; drag slightly right to make a sub-item.
- Tick the display location and save.
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What makes a good menu?
| Do | Avoid |
|---|---|
| 5 to 7 top items | 12 items in one row |
| Clear labels like “Services” | Clever names visitors do not understand |
| A highlighted button for the main action | Hiding Contact in the footer |
| Test the mobile menu | Dropdowns that need hovering |
Why does my menu not show up?
Imagine creating a perfect menu that never appears on the site. Usually the display location was not ticked, or the header is built in Elementor and uses a different menu in its Nav Menu widget. Check the header template, choose the right menu in the widget, and clear caches. Build a sticky one with the Elementor sticky header tutorial.
Want to learn WordPress menus faster with a tutor?
I teach WordPress and Elementor 1-to-1 over Zoom or Google Meet, on your own website, at your pace. Lessons start at $40, every lesson is recorded so you can rewatch it, and you get a short checklist afterwards. Beginners, business owners, students and freelancers are all welcome. See lessons and prices or book a free intro call.
Frequently asked questions
How do I create a menu in WordPress?
In classic themes, go to Appearance, Menus, add items, choose a location and save. Block themes use the Navigation block in the Site Editor.
How do I make a dropdown menu?
Drag a menu item slightly to the right under another item to make it a sub-item.
Why is my WordPress menu not showing?
The display location may not be set, or your Elementor header uses a different menu in its Nav Menu widget.
How many items should a menu have?
Five to seven top-level items is a good limit.
Sources
Live 1-to-1 WordPress and Elementor lessons on your own site, from $40. Every lesson recorded. Beginners welcome.
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Tanvir H is a Bangladesh-based WordPress and Elementor web designer with 7+ years of experience, 650+ projects and a 4.9 client rating. New websites, redesigns, fixes, speed, security and SEO, handled by one expert who explains everything in plain English and works with clients worldwide.
