A guide to creating your own website

This tutorial provides you a guide to creating your own website, focusing mainly on the concepts of on layout, programming, design and hosting.

Figure out what kind of website you want

Depending on the topic of your site, there are different types of websites available which will present your content as effectively as possible. For example, a website with product reviews can benefit from a blog style layout. A sports result website will perhaps be best suited to a main page with all current results. Make sure you choose the most effective layout and website type for your content, as this will help keep visitors returning.

Budget

Do you have any money to spend? If so, you can essentially buy a web page from a developer. A developer will deal with the design and hosting of your website. If you haven't got any money to spend on setting up a website, then you have two options. Learn to code HTML or take the help of a number of free websites to build your own web page services.

Option 1 - Learn to code

Lifehacker.com offers an easy-to-follow guide which will teach you to code a website.

Option 2 - Free Services

A quick search for creating a site will point you to a number of resources. Some can produce excellent results with attractive Flash interfaces (Wix.com).

Domains

If you want a unique .com address, then you will have to buy it. Domains are usually cheap, and payments can be made on a monthly to yearly basis.

Hosting

If you have bought a domain, then you will need to host your website somewhere in order for your domain name to be directed to your site. Godaddy.com is a popular hosting service, and even offers domain services.

Spread the word

Social media gives you an excellent opportunity to publicize your website and attract visitors. Facebook, Twitter, Stumbleupon and other platforms are all great outlets to let everyone know your website exists. Once you have a steady flow of visitors, you will be able to benefit from monetisation.

Monetise

The easiest way to earn money through your website is through affiliate programs. Services such as Google Ads and the Amazon Affiliate Program will earn you money based on the number of visitors who click on the links available on your web page.

Update

Be sure to update your website frequently. New content will keep visitors returning. This will be an indication of growing interest for your new website.

Maintain

Don't let your website get bogged down by spam, whether it refers to the page comments section or whether it refers to association with poor content.