How to Turn Off Distraction Free WordPress

WordPress is a powerful content management system (CMS) known for its flexibility and ease of use. In this blog, titled “How to Turn Off Distraction Free WordPress,” we will explore one of its features: the Distraction-Free Writing Mode (DFWM), designed to help users focus on content creation without the clutter of the standard WordPress editor interface. While this mode can be helpful for some, others may find it limiting, especially if they rely on the editor’s tools for formatting, media, and other advanced options. We’ll discuss what Distraction-Free Writing Mode is, why some users might want to disable it, and how you can easily turn it off in WordPress.

What Is Distraction-Free Writing Mode in WordPress?

Distraction-Free Writing Mode, introduced to help content creators focus on writing, removes unnecessary elements from the screen, such as menus, sidebars, and toolbars, when you are actively typing. The intention is to create a clean and minimal environment where you can concentrate solely on your writing.

In this mode, when you’re typing, most of the WordPress editor interface disappears. However, as soon as you stop typing or move the mouse, the editor’s options reappear.

While this feature seems useful for writers who want to avoid distractions, it can sometimes be more of a hindrance than a help for those who frequently need access to formatting options, media upload buttons, and other tools in the editor.

Also Read: What’s a Bold New Font Style Used in WordPress?

Why Disable Distraction-Free Writing Mode?

Here are a few reasons why users might prefer to disable Distraction-Free Writing Mode:

1. Frequent Use of Editing Tools: If you’re someone who constantly switches between typing and using formatting options (like bold, italics, or headings), distraction-free mode can slow you down because the toolbar keeps disappearing.
2. Need for Media Access: Inserting media (images, videos, etc.) often requires quick access to the toolbar or side menus. Distraction-free mode hides these elements, forcing you to pause your writing to make the toolbar reappear.
3. Working with Plugins and Widgets: Many WordPress plugins add options to the editor’s toolbar. When using distraction-free mode, you may lose immediate access to these features, which could impact your workflow.
4. Preference for Full Control: Some users simply prefer to have all the available options visible at all times for convenience and ease of use.

How to Disable Distraction-Free Writing Mode in WordPress

Thankfully, turning off distraction-free mode in WordPress is easy and can be done in just a few steps.

Step 1: Open the WordPress Editor

First, log in to your WordPress site and open a post or page you want to edit. This will bring up the WordPress block editor (Gutenberg) or the classic editor, depending on which one your site uses.

Step 2: Look for the Editor Settings

In the top-right corner of the screen, you’ll find the Settings icon (three vertical dots) in both the classic and Gutenberg editors. This is where you’ll access various options related to the editor’s layout and features.

Step 3: Access the Distraction-Free Writing Mode Setting

Once you click on the Settings icon, a dropdown menu will appear. In this menu, you should see the option for Distraction-Free mode. This option may be labeled slightly differently depending on your WordPress version, but it’s typically listed under something like Editor Options or Preferences.

In the Gutenberg editor, you’ll find it under Preferences > Appearance > Distraction-Free Mode.

Step 4: Toggle the Setting

Simply toggle the switch for Distraction-Free Writing Mode to disable it. Once disabled, all of the menus, toolbars, and other editing features will remain visible while you’re typing.

In the classic editor, this option might appear as a button you can click to turn distraction-free mode on or off. Make sure it is turned off so that the full editor interface remains visible while you work.

Alternative Methods to Disable Distraction-Free Writing Mode

In some cases, you may prefer to use alternative methods to turn off distraction-free mode, especially if you’re using a customized version of WordPress or have different plugins that may hide the default options.

1. Disabling via Code (for Developers)

If you’re a developer or feel comfortable adding custom code to your WordPress site, you can permanently disable distraction-free mode by adding a small piece of code to your functions.php file.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Navigate to your WordPress Theme Editor from the WordPress dashboard.
2. Find and open your theme’s functions.php file.
3. Add the following code:
   php

   add_filter('wp_use_editor_fullscreen', '__return_false');


This will prevent the distraction-free mode from being activated when you edit posts or pages.

2. Using a Plugin

If you’d rather not modify code, there are plugins available that give you more control over the WordPress editor’s behavior. One such plugin is Classic Editor, which allows you to disable the Gutenberg editor altogether, giving you access to the older, non-distraction-free editor.

Here’s how you can disable distraction-free mode using the Classic Editor plugin:

1. Install and activate the Classic Editor plugin from the WordPress plugin repository.
2. Go to Settings > Writing in your WordPress dashboard.
3. Under the Editor settings, choose to disable distraction-free mode.

This will revert the WordPress editor to its previous version, without the distraction-free feature.

Also Read: How to Restore WordPress Category

Benefits of Turning Off Distraction-Free Writing Mode

While distraction-free mode may help some writers focus, turning it off can offer several benefits:

• Increased Efficiency: Having the toolbar and other editing options visible at all times can speed up your workflow, especially if you frequently use formatting tools or insert media.
• Better Control: Without distraction-free mode, you have more immediate control over the layout and design of your content, allowing you to make changes more quickly.
• More Functionality: If you rely on plugins or custom settings that add features to the editor toolbar, disabling distraction-free mode ensures that you always have access to these tools while writing.

Final Thought On How to Turn Off Distraction Free WordPress

Distraction-Free Writing Mode in WordPress is designed to help writers focus, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all feature. Many users find that having access to WordPress’s full set of editing tools improves their writing and editing efficiency. Thankfully, WordPress gives you the flexibility to easily turn off this feature.

Whether you’re a blogger, business owner, or developer, understanding how to control your WordPress editor’s settings can streamline your workflow and enhance your content creation experience. With just a few clicks, you can customize the editor to suit your needs and preferences.

By following the steps above, you can quickly disable Distraction-Free Writing Mode and take full advantage of WordPress’s powerful editing tools.

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