Learn How to Convert Shortcodes to Gutenberg Blocks For WordPress Developers

Gutenberg contributor Gary Pendergast has published a handy sample plugin that demonstrates how to convert shortcode functionality to a Gutenberg block.

The first file shows a basic example of how to register a block with JavaScript and add block inspector controls to the sidebar. The second file is the PHP code for the plugin that converts the existing shortcode logic into a block that will work inside the new editor.

“This sample uses the ServerSideRender element,” Pendergast said. “It’s critical to remember that ServerSideRender is a stepping stone to a full block editing experience: having to call back to the server to re-render is a worse UX than native JS rendering. Use ServerSideRender to get your existing functionality ready for WordPress 5.0 now, and plan to phase it out over time.”

With WordPress 4.9.8’s “Try Gutenberg” callout just around the corner, this sample plugin may be helpful for developers who have created custom shortcode plugins for clients. If you’re not sure where to start, Pendergast’s sample plugin makes Gutenberg block creation more approachable. The Gutenberg handbook has more in-depth documentation for developers who want to improve their blocks beyond this basic example.

Source: WPtavern.com