This image is a vibrant, stylized illustration showcasing key elements of SEO and blogging tools. It features colorful bar charts and icons, with labels like "Hosting," "AI," "Internal Linking," and "Tools." A large magnifying glass emphasizes SEO and content creation, while icons for a blog, a calendar, and a phone displaying a search screen represent important blogging resources. The overall theme focuses on SEO strategies and essential blogging tools, with a pencil and plant adding a creative, fresh touch.

40+ Best Blogging Tools and Resources to Explode Your Blog Growth in 2024

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Starting a blog is exciting, but finding the right tools can feel a bit overwhelming. I’ve been blogging for a while now, and I know how much the right resources can make all the difference. That’s why I’ve put together a list of the best tools and resources (some paid, several free options too) to help you on your blogging journey. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to level up, these are my go-to recommendations for a successful blog!

This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Domain Name Registration

Your domain name is one of the first things your readers see when visiting your site. It’s the digital address that represents your brand, so choosing the right domain name and registrar is crucial. A good domain should be easy to remember, reflect your brand, and be registered with a reliable service that offers a good value.

  • Porkbun: PorkBun is a domain registrar that’s both affordable and easy to use. Named the #1 domain registrar by USA Today, they offer some of the lowest prices on domain registrations and renewals. I love using PorkBun to snag and park my domain ideas quickly without breaking the bank (because who doesn’t have a million ideas waiting to launch, right?). Plus, their fun name and cute little piggy mascot always bring a smile to my face! 🐷

Blog Hosting

Choosing the right host can literally make or break your site. Your hosting provider impacts your website’s speed, security, and overall performance. Whether you’re just starting out or ready to upgrade, picking a reliable host is essential to keeping your blog running smoothly.

  • Bluehost : I started my blog on Bluehost, and it’s a great option for newbie bloggers. If you’re just starting out, it’s hands-down the most affordable choice. Right now, you can get 75% off a year of hosting through my link, bringing the cost down to just $1.99/month— plus you get a free domain for the first year! It’s a great way to kickstart your blog and see if it’s something you want to stick with, without making a big upfront investment.
  • BigScoots: Once your blog starts to grow and you’re ready for premium hosting, BigScoots is my #1 recommendation. It’s more expensive, but with that comes faster speeds, better security, and top-notch support. I host this blog you’re reading right now on BigScoots and I love them so much! 😍 Their customer support is out of this world, and if you have a little bit more room in your budget, they’re an excellent investment—even for those just starting out.


WordPress Themes

Your theme is the foundation of your blog’s design and layout and helps you to create a visually appealing site without needing to code. The right theme can make your blog look professional and improve user experience, while also impacting speed and performance. 

  • Kadence: Kadence is the only blog theme I recommend at this time. It’s been an absolute game-changer for my site. I originally started my blog using a Genesis theme I purchased from Etsy, which looked great but was tough to customize and it never quite passed Core Web Vitals. After switching to Kadence, my site became noticeably faster, and my ad RPMs increased by several dollars overnight (coincidence? 🤔). Kadence offers fantastic free theme templates, though they often require a bit of customization to get them to look the way you want. If you’re not into DIY, I highly recommend theme designer, Restored316. They create stunning Kadence child themes, and their support team is exceptional. They even offer a theme installation service if you want everything taken care of for you.
Completely Customizable Feminine WordPress Themes


SEO Tools

These SEO tools are essential for any blogger who wants their blog content to rank higher on search engines like Google. Here are my must-have SEO tools:

  • RankIQ: ⭐My absolute favorite SEO tool. RankIQ is an incredibly powerful tool designed to help you optimize your blog posts for search engines. It offers more than just keyword suggestions and a content optimizer—it also provides detailed ranking analysis, a hand-picked library of low-competition keywords, and insights to help you create high-quality content that ranks faster. With RankIQ, you get everything you need to boost your SEO and drive more traffic to your blog. (You can read my RankIQ review here.)
  • Keysearch: This is a budget-friendly keyword research tool that helps you find the right keywords to target in your blog posts. With in-depth analysis and competitive insights, Keysearch is a solid choice for bloggers looking to improve their SEO without breaking the bank. (Use code KSDISC for 20% off)
  • Link Whisper: A great tool for internal linking that automates the process of adding relevant links between your blog posts. Internal links help boost SEO by distributing link juice and keeping visitors on your site longer. (You can read my Link Whisper review here.)
  • Rank Math: A free WordPress plugin that makes SEO optimization easy for beginners and pros alike. From meta tags to XML sitemaps, RankMath provides a comprehensive set of tools and SEO recommendations to help improve your on-page SEO.
  • Grammarly: While primarily known as a grammar checker, Grammarly’s free version is good for catching spelling and other errors that might impact the readability and clarity of your posts, both of which are important for SEO.
  • WordStream Free Keyword Tool: A solid starter tool for bloggers looking for free keyword research. WordStream’s tool provides basic keyword ideas, but keep in mind that the competition metrics are tailored for advertisers, not necessarily for bloggers focused on organic search. While it’s helpful for brainstorming, you may want to supplement it with a dedicated SEO tool for more accurate insights.
  • Broken Link Checker: This free tool scans your website for broken links, which can negatively impact your SEO. Broken links are a common issue for bloggers, and this tool ensures that your site stays optimized.
  • She Knows Alt Text: This tool requires a free ChatGPT account and helps generate optimized alt text for images on your blog. Alt text improves both accessibility and SEO, making it a crucial part of your blog’s optimization strategy.
rankiq


AI Writers

I’m not a fan of one-click AI blog writers. Using one-click writers can lead to generic and unoriginal content that won’t engage your target audience or build a loyal following. However, when paired with human editing and touch, AI writing tools can be an incredibly useful part of your writing process, helping you to create high-quality, accurate, and helpful content. 

It’s important not to rely solely on AI-generated output—and to use AI responsibly to ensure your content stays consistent and error-free. I recommend using AI strategically, as it can save time and still deliver the quality your readers expect—provided you approach using it with the right oversight.

Here are my favorite AI writing tools:

  • Jasper: Of the different AI writing tools I use, this one does the best job of getting my brand voice ‘right’. Jasper can help with everything from blog posts to social media content. It offers a wide range of templates, an on-page text editor, and is known for its ease of use—making it a great option for many marketing and writing tasks.
  • ChatGPT: Probably the most commonly known of the AI writing tools on this list, ChatGPT is great for generating new ideas, drafting content, outlines, and answering questions quickly. With the right prompting, the results can be pretty impressive. However, as with all AI writers, it’s important to double-check facts and polish the final output.
  • Agility Writer: My favorite AW feature is the ‘Advanced Mode Article’ option, where you can input up to 2,500 characters worth of keywords you’d like to target. The tool then generates three different outline options to choose from, followed by a solid first draft that naturally incorporates as many of the keywords as possible. Unlike many other AI writers, which typically allow only 3 to 5 target keywords, Agility Writer offers a much more comprehensive approach to keyword integration. While the draft still requires oversight and editing, it’s an excellent starting point.
  • RightBlogger: RightBlogger is packed with over 80 tools, making it so much more than just an AI writer. It’s an incredible value for bloggers looking to streamline their content creation process. There’s a tool for just about everything. My personal favorite is the “Blog Post to YouTube Video Script” tool, which helps transform blog content into ready-to-go video scripts for your YouTube videos. RightBlogger offers a free trial if you’d like to test out the features before upgrading to the full plan.
This image is a promotional banner for RightBlogger, showcasing "80+ AI-Powered Blogging Tools." The text highlights that these tools are designed to help users create content faster and more effectively, with new tools being added regularly. The layout features a dark background with lists of various blogging tools, including popular features such as chat and article writing assistance. A call to action encourages users to sign in or try the service for free.

Remember, these tools are meant to assist you in creating quality content, not replace your own writing and content creation skills. Use them wisely. 😉


Best Plugins

Plugins are tools you can add to your blog to extend its functionality, from SEO optimization to performance improvements and more. While plugins can be incredibly useful, it’s important not to overload your site with too many, as this can slow down your website. If you’re interested in a plugin, give it a trial run to make sure there are no conflicts and that it aligns with your site’s specific needs. Here are a few plugins I recommend for boosting your blog’s performance without going overboard.

  • WP-Optimize – Clean, Compress, Cache: If your host doesn’t provide a caching plugin (some, like BigScoots, do), then WP-Optimize is a must. It’s not just a caching plugin—it also cleans your database and compresses images, making your site fast and efficient. As their plugin page says, “Fast sites attract more traffic.” It’s a powerful tool, especially for a free plugin.
  • UpdraftPlus: Another essential plugin if your host doesn’t handle backups (again, BigScoots has me covered here). If your host doesn’t provide this service, you’ll want UpdraftPlus to regularly back up your site to your preferred storage location (think Dropbox, Google Drive, etc.). The free version does the job well, keeping your data safe.
  • Link Whisper: I’ve already mentioned Link Whisper in the SEO tools section, but it’s worth repeating. It’s perfect for automating internal linking between blog posts, which helps with SEO and keeps visitors engaged longer.
  • Easy Table of Contents or Table of Contents Plus: Both of these plugins do a great job of adding a table of contents to your posts. It really comes down to personal preference for which one looks best on your theme. Either way, they’re both free and a nice addition for user experience.
  • Affi.ai: If you’re just getting started with affiliate marketing, Affi.ai is a great beginner plugin. It’s currently $39/year and helps you create attractive affiliate display boxes that convert well. 
  • Lasso: Once your affiliate income grows, Lasso is the natural next step. It offers gorgeous product displays and a bunch of extra advanced features. The limited free version is okay, but I recommend at least the ‘Startup’ plan at $99/year if you can swing it.
  • Akismet Anti-Spam: A must-have if you have comments enabled on your blog. This plugin helps keep spam under control and ensures your comment section stays clean.
  • Easy Digital Downloads (EDD): If you plan on selling digital products, EDD is a fantastic lightweight option. It’s much less bulky than WooCommerce and works well for digital items like printables. I use the free version paired with the also free ‘Easy Digital Downloads – Digital Badge‘ plugin to clearly mark my products as digital and downloadable.
  • Grow for WP: This plugin is amazing for audience engagement. It automates email sign-ups and offers other features to help build a community around your blog. If you’re serious about growing an engaged audience, this free plugin is a great start.
  • Hubbub: If you want to make it easy for your audience to share your content, Hubbub is a great choice. It includes options for easily sharing pins, and though there is a free Lite version, the Pro version paid plan at $49/year is worth it for bloggers looking to boost social engagement.
  • Independent Analytics: This free analytics plugin is visually appealing and user-friendly. While you’ll still need Google Analytics set up for ad networks, Independent Analytics offers real-time data and a full dashboard right in WordPress. It’s super simple to set up, and the free version has plenty of features.
  • Kadence Blocks: Kadence Blocks elevates the Gutenberg editor with custom blocks that make it easier to create stunning websites. My favorite is the ‘icon list’ block, which I’m actually using in this post to show the checkmarks beside each plugin recommendation.
  • PrettyLinks: PrettyLinks allows you to shorten, beautify, and track links, making it perfect for managing affiliate links and more. It lets you create customized URLs using your domain name (way better than relying on services like bit.ly), which is great for branding and keeping your links tidy. I use the free plan.
  • RankMath SEO: While I primarily use search engine optimization plugins solely for their sitemaps, Rank Math stands out. I’ve used all the SEO plugins before (AIOSEO, Yoast SEO, etc.) and have found Rank Math to be the fastest, easiest to use, and it offers the most for free. If you’re looking for an SEO plugin that won’t cost you, the free version of Rank Math should be more than enough.
  • WP Menu Cart: If you’re selling digital products, this plugin adds a cute little shopping cart icon to your menu bar. It works with both WooCommerce and Easy Digital Downloads, making it a great addition for e-commerce.
  • WPCode: A simple, free code snippets plugin that’s perfect for adding things like Google Analytics code to your header and footer. If you’re not comfortable working with code directly, WPCode makes it easy to handle the basics.

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Email Marketing Tools

Building an email list is one of the most important steps you can take as a blogger. Unlike social media, where algorithms change constantly, an email list gives you direct access to your audience. It’s a great way to build relationships, share updates, and drive traffic back to your site. Here are two beginner-friendly email service providers I recommend for growing your list.

  • Kit (formerly ConvertKit): Kit is a powerful email marketing platform that’s beginner-friendly and perfect for bloggers. It offers a generous free plan, with features like customizable forms, automated email sequences, and detailed analytics to help you grow and engage your audience. Kit makes it easy to set up and manage your email marketing, even if you’re new to the process.
  • MailerLite: MailerLite is another excellent option for bloggers on a budget. With a clean, easy-to-use interface and a robust set of features (like drag-and-drop email builders and automation), MailerLite allows you to grow your email list without getting overwhelmed. Its free plan is great for beginners and offers everything you need to start building your list and nurturing your subscribers.
This image is an advertisement for MailerLite, promoting a 30-day premium trial. The ad features a headline reading "Get your 30-day premium trial" and a green "Start now" button. Below the text, there is an image of a smiling man working on a laptop with a casual, modern background, reinforcing the idea of ease and convenience in using the service.


Digital Product Creation

Creating and selling digital products in an online store is a great way to generate revenue for your blog. Whether you’re offering printables, eBooks, or templates, having the right tools can make the process much easier. Here are two powerful resources that I use and recommend for creating digital products.

  • Canva: I use Canva daily for so many different things—creating Pinterest pins, customizing blog graphics, and designing digital products. Canva offers a vast array of features, from drag-and-drop templates to a library of design elements, making it easy for anyone to create stunning visuals. Whether you’re designing an eBook, social media graphics, or downloadable printables, Canva has the tools to help you bring your products to life.
  • Creative Fabrica: This one feels like my little secret! Creative Fabrica is an incredibly valuable (and often overlooked) resource for product creation of all kinds. It offers a wide range of fonts, graphics, and design elements that you can use to create all sorts of products, both physical and digital. While it’s a paid subscription, they offer tons of freebies, and the subscription license allows you to use elements to create new designs that you can sell. I love using Creative Fabrica for its variety and ease of use.
Font Banner - Free Fonts


Courses

Paying for online courses isn’t something you have to do, but investing in the right ones can definitely help you reach your goals much faster. If you’re looking to level up your blogging game, these are courses I’ve taken and recommend. They cover everything from SEO and content creation to monetization strategies and even conquering Pinterest.

  • Pinteresting Strategies 2.0: Diversifying your traffic sources is super important, and Pinterest can be a game-changer for driving consistent, long-term traffic to your blog. I used the strategies from Pinteresting Strategies 2.0 to reach Mediavine’s 50,000 sessions requirement, and Pinterest remains a top traffic source for my blog. This course, created by mommy blogger Carly Campbell, is affordable, regularly updated, and perfect for beginner bloggers looking to master Pinterest on a budget.

Other Resources

  • Icons8: If you’ve ever noticed the small icon that appears in the tab when you visit a website, that’s called a favicon. It’s a tiny graphic that helps visitors recognize and identify your site quickly. For example, my site’s favicon is a pink heart, which you can see at the top of this page! Icons8 offers a wide range of icons and you can typically use their assets for free as long as you provide attribution. You can see an example of this in my site’s footer.
  • Stock Photo Resources: If you’re looking for free, high-quality images to use on your blog, these stock photo sites are my go-tos: Pexels, Pixabay, Burst, and Unsplash. Each of these platforms offers a wide selection of royalty-free images that can be used for your blog or digital products. However, it’s always a good idea to check the image licenses on each site to confirm the proper and legal use, especially for commercial projects.
  • ⭐ Legal Pages: One critical mistake many amateur bloggers make is forgetting to include essential legal pages. Without a privacy policy, disclaimer, and terms of service, your blog may not be legally protected. These pages are required by law in many cases and help protect both your readers and your business. To ensure you’re covered, I recommend the VIP Legal Bundle by lawyer Amira Irfan. It’s a comprehensive and affordable solution that provides all the legal templates you need, saving you time and potential legal headaches.
  • Google Search Console: Google Search Console is a useful tool for monitoring and improving your blog’s search engine rankings. It helps you track performance, fix issues, and ensure that your site follows SEO best practices. By using this tool, you can gain insights into how Google views your site and identify opportunities to improve visibility in search results.

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