WordPress Hooks System: Actions and Filters Explained

WordPress hooks are the backbone of WordPress customization. They allow developers to modify WordPress behavior without touching core files.

What Are WordPress Hooks?

Hooks are specific points where you can insert your own code. There are two types:

• Actions – Execute custom code at specific points
• Filters – Modify data before it’s used or displayed

How Actions Work

function my_custom_initialization() {
    // Register custom post types
    // Enqueue scripts
}
add_action('init', 'my_custom_initialization');

How Filters Work

function custom_excerpt_length($length) {
    return 25;
}
add_filter('excerpt_length', 'custom_excerpt_length');

Best Practices

• Use unique, descriptive function names
• Always return values in filters
• Check function existence