How to Make a Website | Step by Step [2026]

Steve Builds Websites

6 chapters7 takeaways12 key terms5 questions

Overview

This video guides beginners through the process of creating a website, from choosing the right tool to publishing and basic SEO. It demystifies the technical jargon often associated with web development, emphasizing a step-by-step, straightforward approach. The presenter uses a personal YouTube channel website as a case study, demonstrating how to select a website builder, design pages, craft a compelling homepage, style the site with colors and fonts, and add essential pages like 'My Promise' and an FAQ. The video also covers crucial aspects like mobile responsiveness, domain registration, and an introduction to SEO, all while stressing the importance of a human-centered, audience-focused design.

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Chapters

Website creation tools can be broadly categorized into Frameworks, Static Site Generators, CMS, and Website Builders.
Frameworks and Static Site Generators require coding knowledge, while CMS may require some, and Website Builders require none.
For beginners or simple projects like a personal website, Website Builders are the easiest and most recommended option.
Elite website builders like Squarespace, Wix, Shopify, Card, Webflow, and Framer each have specific strengths (e.g., Shopify for e-commerce, Card for one-page sites, Webflow/Framer for custom design).

Selecting the appropriate tool is crucial for a smooth and efficient website-building process, preventing unnecessary complexity and frustration.

The presenter chooses Squarespace for his YouTube channel website because it's a user-friendly website builder suitable for a multi-page site without needing to code, unlike a framework needed for a complex site like Facebook.

Websites are built using templates or from scratch; starting from a blank template offers more control.
Key structural elements include creating necessary pages (e.g., Home, About, Contact) and organizing them in the navigation.
Website headers typically follow a consistent, intuitive layout (logo left, navigation middle, CTA right) to ensure user familiarity.
A Call to Action (CTA) button should be reserved for the website's primary business goal, such as booking an appointment or making a purchase.

A well-structured site with a clear and consistent header helps visitors navigate intuitively, improving user experience and guiding them towards desired actions.

The presenter customizes the header to include a logo, navigation links, and a button, arranging them in a specific layout that mirrors common web design conventions for ease of use.

Effective homepages are concise, human-centered, and focus on the audience's needs.
Key elements include a strong headline, a compelling visual (like a personal photo), and social proof (like testimonials).
The design should communicate a clear vibe and tone through colors, fonts, and imagery.
Website design is an iterative process; expect to create multiple versions before settling on the best one.

The homepage is the first impression; it needs to quickly convey value, build trust, and encourage visitors to explore further.

The presenter adds a personal photo, a slogan ('I try every website builder so you don't have to'), and YouTube comments as testimonials to create a friendly and trustworthy homepage.

Website styling, using colors and fonts, communicates a specific brand personality or 'vibe'.
Different website types benefit from different styles: minimalist for portfolios, colorful for food sites, etc.
Color palettes typically consist of light colors, an accent color, and dark colors.
Button styles and text decorations (like underlines) can be customized to enhance the overall aesthetic.

Thoughtful styling makes a website visually appealing and helps establish a consistent brand identity that resonates with the target audience.

The presenter selects a color palette with soft green, mint green, a playful green accent, and black, and applies these to elements like buttons and text underlines to create a more playful vibe for his site.

Create pages that genuinely serve your audience's needs, answering their questions and concerns.
The 'My Promise' page can build trust by making specific commitments about content or practices.
Avoid vague statements; instead, offer concrete promises and specific details.
Include practical pages like FAQs and a contact form, and consider adding biographical information.

Well-developed supporting pages provide valuable information, build credibility, and make it easy for visitors to engage with your content or services.

The presenter creates a 'My Promise' page detailing commitments like 'I use the tools I recommend' and 'No sponsored videos' to establish trust with his audience, contrasting this with vague marketing slogans.

Ensure your website is responsive and looks good on all devices, especially mobile phones.
Registering a domain name is essential for a professional online presence; it can be managed through your website builder.
SEO (Search Engine Optimization) is about making your website visible in search engine results.
Effective SEO involves identifying keywords with good search volume but low competition, and creating content that incorporates these keywords naturally.

A functional website needs to be accessible on all devices and discoverable by potential visitors through search engines.

The presenter registers 'stevebuildswebsites.com' through Squarespace, selects a paid plan, and explains how to find keywords like 'handmade ceramic mug' to target potential customers searching online.

Key takeaways

1Anyone can build a website, even beginners, by choosing the right tools and following a structured process.
2Matching your website project's complexity and goals to the appropriate website building tool is key to success.
3User experience is paramount; design with your audience in mind, ensuring intuitive navigation and clear calls to action.
4A website's visual style, through colors and fonts, plays a significant role in conveying its brand personality and attracting the right audience.
5Building trust with your audience involves being transparent, making specific promises, and providing valuable, audience-focused content.
6Website iteration is normal; don't expect perfection on the first try, but continuously refine your design and content.
7Making your website discoverable through SEO is crucial for attracting visitors, focusing on relevant keywords and valuable content.

Key terms

Website BuilderCMS (Content Management System)FrameworkStatic Site GeneratorE-commerceCall to Action (CTA)HomepageVibe and ToneSEO (Search Engine Optimization)KeywordsKeyword VolumeDomain Name

Test your understanding

1What are the four main categories of website building tools, and which is generally easiest for beginners?
2Why is a consistent header layout important for website usability?
3How can a website's homepage effectively build trust and encourage visitors to stay?
4What is the core principle of SEO, and how can a small business identify effective keywords?
5Why is it important to make specific commitments on pages like 'My Promise' rather than using vague statements?