Setting up your blog can be accomplished in just a few simple steps. To get started you just need the following:
- User Name – this will be the name you log in with each time you access your blog "dashboard"
- Blog Domain – this is the unique URL address that belongs only to you. It cannot be changed.
- Blog Name – this is the title that shows at the top of your blog. You can change it at any time.
- E-mail address
Once you've decided on your user name and URL, you can fill in the information to get yourself set up.
- Go to WordPress.com, and click on the blue box on the right that says "Get a WordPress Blog Now"
- Fill in the simple form, and remember to look over the Terms of Service. It may seem like boring information to you, but it is important to know what you can and cannot do, and what the folks at WordPress can and cannot do for you.
- On the next page, you have the opportunity to choose your URL (domain name) and the title of your blog. Remember, the URL cannot be changed. The default URL is the same as your user name, but it can be something different if you prefer. Choose your preferred language, and whether or not you want your blog to show up in search engines.
- Once you click Sign Up, you'll have to check your e-mail to activate your blog.
- Click the activation link in your email. WordPress will send you a second email with your password, which you can change if you like.
You are now the proud owner of your very own blog, and can begin posting right away!
Most free blog hosting services have a similar process for setting up your blog. I have chosen WordPress because it is easy to use, has a simple interface, and nice features. I encourage you to try some of the other free services until you find the one that fits you best.
