WordPress syntax error and how to fix it

Here are some general practices for fixing syntax errors in WordPress:

Edit the problematic file

Review the code file where the error is appearing. Identify the line that’s throwing the error and check the syntax. Syntax errors can often arise due to a range of factors, such as poor tag closure or usage of ‘@’ outside of email address contexts. It is important to remember that you must possess at least a fundamental grasp of the PHP programming language.

What about updates?

Check if you have the latest version of WordPress and all the plugins you’re using. Older versions may contain bugs that have been fixed in newer releases. If an error occurred during a plugin update, try reverting to the previous version. You can do this via FTP by renaming the current plugin and then uploading the original plugin from a backup.

Deactivate plugins that may have caused the syntax error

Deactivate all your plugins and activate them one by one. This way, you can identify the plugin that’s causing a conflict and the syntax error. You can then leave that plugin turned off or use an alternative.

Theme’s function.php file

If the error occurs while modifying your theme, check the functions.php file in your theme. This file contains functions that can cause syntax errors. If it is required, you can opt to substitute the functions.php file with a new one sourced from the official channels, usually from the developer of the theme. This is because the functions.php file has functions that may cause a syntax error while modifying the theme.

Unable to fix the problem, and syntax error still appearing

If the syntax error continues to appear, you can contact your hosting’s technical support or the developer of the element you’re using. It may be a more complex problem that requires professional help.

WordPress syntax error and how to fix it – Conclusion

It’s crucial to keep in mind that when making changes to code, it’s essential to adhere to the syntax of the programming language you’re using. In case you’re uncertain, utilizing online code validators can be of tremendous help, as they can identify any issues present in your code. By meticulously examining the source and employing systematic approaches, you can locate and rectify any problems that arise. To conclude, it’s critical to emphasize the significance of conducting thorough and frequent backups. You can store them either on your local machine or in the cloud.