Before updating WordPress core, themes, or plugins, always create a backup. Tools like UpdraftPlus or Jetpack Backup let you restore your site in minutes if something breaks — essential for peace of mind.
A caching plugin like WP Rocket or LiteSpeed Cache stores static versions of your site pages, significantly boosting load times. This improves SEO rankings and keeps users from bouncing due to slow performance.
More plugins don’t mean more power — they can actually slow down your site, cause security issues, and create conflicts. Stick to well-reviewed, essential plugins and regularly audit for ones you no longer need.
When modifying a WordPress theme, always use a child theme. It ensures your custom code and styles won't be lost when the parent theme gets updated — preserving your work and saving future headaches.