How To Create Your Own Website (2019) Course

Editorial Take

Jennifer Bailey’s 'How To Create Your Own Website (2019)' is a practical, no-fluff course designed for absolute beginners. It walks learners through the foundational steps of launching a website, focusing on real-world actions rather than abstract theory. With a clear structure and straightforward delivery, it’s ideal for non-technical users eager to establish an online presence quickly.

Standout Strengths

• Beginner-Focused Clarity: The course assumes zero prior knowledge, making it accessible to anyone. Concepts like domain names and hosting are explained in plain language without technical jargon.
• Step-by-Step Website Setup: From registering a domain to changing nameservers, each action is demonstrated clearly. Learners follow along with confidence, reducing setup errors and confusion.
• WordPress Installation Mastery: Installing WordPress can be intimidating, but the course simplifies it with a guided walkthrough. This builds learner confidence in managing content management systems.
• Hands-On Customization: The lengthy customization module allows learners to personalize themes and add content. This practical focus ensures users can launch a functional, attractive site.
• Real-Time Problem Solving: Bonus videos and support tips address common issues users face. This proactive approach enhances the learning experience and reduces frustration.
• Lifetime Access Model: Udemy’s lifetime access means learners can revisit steps anytime. This is valuable for those building multiple sites or returning after a break.

Honest Limitations

Content Dated Since 2019: While core concepts remain valid, some hosting platforms and WordPress features have evolved. Learners may need to adapt instructions to current interfaces.
• Limited Design Depth: The course covers basic customization but doesn’t dive into responsive design or advanced CSS. Those seeking polished, modern aesthetics may need supplemental resources.
• Minimal SEO or Marketing Guidance: The course focuses on setup, not visibility. Learners won’t learn keyword optimization or traffic generation strategies here.
• Narrow Technical Scope: It doesn’t cover security, backups, or performance optimization. These omissions leave gaps for users managing live websites long-term.

How to Get the Most Out of It

• Study cadence: Complete one module per day to allow hands-on practice. Spacing out learning improves retention and reduces overwhelm during technical steps.
• Parallel project: Build your actual website while watching. Applying each step immediately reinforces learning and yields a tangible result by course end.
• Note-taking: Document your domain provider, hosting login, and nameserver settings. These details are critical and easy to misplace during setup.
• Community: Join Udemy Q&A to ask questions and share experiences. Other learners often post updated tips for current hosting platforms.
• Practice: Reinstall WordPress on a test domain to experiment with themes and plugins. This builds confidence without risking a live site.
• Consistency: Stick to a daily 30-minute schedule. Even short sessions keep momentum, especially during the 2.5-hour customization module.

Supplementary Resources

• Book: 'WordPress for Dummies' complements this course with deeper theme and plugin insights. It’s ideal for learners wanting more technical control.
• Tool: Use Namecheap or Google Domains for domain registration. These are user-friendly and widely supported in current tutorials.
• Follow-up: Take 'WordPress for Beginners' by Zac Gordon next. It builds on this foundation with developer-focused tools and best practices.
• Reference: WordPress.org documentation offers updated guides on installation and troubleshooting. It’s a reliable source when adapting 2019 methods to 2024.

Common Pitfalls

• Pitfall: Skipping nameserver changes can prevent site launch. Always verify DNS settings match your hosting provider’s requirements to avoid downtime.
• Pitfall: Overloading with plugins slows performance. Stick to essential plugins during setup to maintain speed and security.
• Pitfall: Ignoring mobile preview leads to poor user experience. Always test how your site appears on phones and tablets during customization.

Time & Money ROI

• Time: Completing the course in 3–4 hours yields a live website. This efficiency makes it ideal for entrepreneurs needing quick online visibility.
• Cost-to-value: At a typical $15–$20 sale price, it’s a high-value entry point. The knowledge gained far exceeds the cost for personal or small business use.
• Certificate: The Certificate of Completion adds credibility to beginner portfolios. While not industry-recognized, it demonstrates initiative to clients or employers.
• Alternative: Free YouTube tutorials lack structure and support. This course’s guided path and Q&A access justify its modest price for beginners.

Editorial Verdict

This course excels as a launchpad for non-technical individuals wanting to build a website quickly and confidently. Jennifer Bailey’s methodical approach removes the intimidation factor from domain registration, hosting setup, and WordPress installation. The hands-on customization module ensures learners don’t just watch—they build. While recorded in 2019, the core principles remain relevant, and with minor adaptation, learners can create professional-looking sites using modern tools. The lifetime access and clear structure make it a smart investment for absolute beginners.

That said, it’s not a comprehensive web development course. It doesn’t cover coding, security, or advanced design—topics that matter for long-term site management. Learners should view this as a foundational skill builder, not a complete solution. For those planning to scale or monetize their site, follow-up learning in SEO, performance optimization, and backups will be necessary. Still, as a first step, it delivers exceptional value. We recommend it for small business owners, freelancers, and creatives who need a simple, functional website without hiring a developer.