<img src="https://itxdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/WordPress-Blog.jpg" alt="WordPress Blog" width="168" height="118" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-8420" />As great as WordPress is, when you put it in the hands of a beginner, mistakes are bound to happen. However, some of the mistakes are quite common and can be avoided if you are aware of them. Here's a look at some of the most common mistakes made by beginners using WordPress.

<h2>Not Making the Permalink Change</h2>

Permalinks are not always set the way you want when you first install WordPress. This setting needs to be adjusted so that you have the right permalink setting. Instead of the p=34 at the end, you want it to be your URL and then the title of the post. This will allow you to gain better SEO and your URLs will actually make sense.

<img src="https://itxdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/Permalinks.png" alt="Permalinks" width="413" height="288" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-8418" />

<h2>Sticking with the Default Login Info</h2>

When you first install WordPress it will give you a password and maybe a username automatically. You don't want to stick with this information. You want to change this information to customize it and give you better security. Make sure you create a very secure password for your WordPress site.

<h2>Choosing a Bad Theme</h2>

Beginners often choose a free theme and it may have bad code. It could also be very old or simply not a good theme. Instead, pay for a theme or be very careful when you choose a free theme.

You don't want a bad theme because it could cause all kinds of issues. You may get hacked easily or even end up with coding issues you cannot afford on your site. The best way to avoid this is to choose a reputable premium theme.

<h2>Not Using an SEO Plugin</h2>

<img src="https://itxdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/SEO-Plugin.jpg" alt="SEO Plugin" width="168" height="114" class="alignright size-full wp-image-8419" />Every WordPress website needs an SEO plugin. There are plenty of good choices out there and the plugin will make sure you have better optimization throughout your site. Don't get started without installing a free SEO plugin.

These are by far the most common mistakes beginners make with WordPress. If you're new to WordPress be aware of these mistakes and do your best to avoid them.
