WordPress REST API: Complete Tutorial

The WordPress REST API provides a powerful interface for interacting with WordPress data programmatically. Build modern applications, mobile apps, and integrations using standard HTTP requests.

What is the WordPress REST API?

The REST API allows you to retrieve and manipulate WordPress data using HTTP requests. It returns JSON data that can be used by JavaScript frameworks, mobile apps, or external services.

Making API Requests

Fetch posts using JavaScript:

fetch('/wp-json/wp/v2/posts')
    .then(response => response.json())
    .then(posts => {
        console.log(posts);
    });

Common Endpoints

• /wp/v2/posts – Get all posts
• /wp/v2/posts/{id} – Get specific post
• /wp/v2/pages – Get all pages
• /wp/v2/media – Get media items

Creating Custom Endpoints

add_action('rest_api_init', function() {
    register_rest_route('myplugin/v1', '/data', array(
        'methods' => 'GET',
        'callback' => 'my_custom_endpoint'
    ));
});

Best Practices

• Use authentication for sensitive data
• Implement proper error handling
• Cache responses when appropriate