How to Use WordPress do_shortcode

Published On - February 10, 2025

Sophia Willson blog

Shortcodes are a powerful feature in WordPress that allow users to easily insert dynamic content into posts, pages, widgets, and even theme files without writing complex code. The do_shortcode() function is a handy way to execute shortcodes directly within PHP files. Whether you’re a developer or a WordPress enthusiast, understanding how to use do_shortcode() can greatly improve your site’s functionality.

What is do_shortcode() and Why Use It?

Normally, shortcodes are added to posts and pages within the WordPress block editor using square brackets. For instance:

However, if you need to use the same shortcode inside a theme file, template, or widget where shortcodes may not be processed automatically, you use do_shortcode(). This function processes the shortcode and returns the expected output.

How to Use do_shortcode() in WordPress

The syntax for the function is straightforward:

<?php echo do_shortcode('[your_shortcode]'); ?>

Let’s break it down step by step with a few examples.

1. Using do_shortcode() in Theme Files

If you are working on a theme and want to display a shortcode within a PHP template file, use the following code:

<?php echo do_shortcode('[contact-form-7 id="123" title="Contact form 1"]'); ?>

This will render the Contact Form 7 shortcode directly inside your theme file.

2. Using do_shortcode() in Widgets

WordPress does not process shortcodes inside text widgets by default. However, you can enable this by adding the following code to your functions.php file:

add_filter('widget_text', 'do_shortcode');

After adding this snippet, you can now use shortcodes inside text widgets.

3. Using do_shortcode() with Custom Shortcodes

If you have created a custom shortcode, you can execute it within your theme files:

// Define a simple shortcode function
function my_custom_shortcode() {
    return '<p>This is a custom shortcode output!</p>';
}

// Register the shortcode
add_shortcode('my_shortcode', 'my_custom_shortcode');

Now, call this shortcode inside a PHP template file:

<?php echo do_shortcode('[my_shortcode]'); ?>

Common Use Cases for do_shortcode()

Using do_shortcode() is helpful in a variety of scenarios:

  • Inside Theme Files: Display dynamic content in templates.
  • In Widgets: Enable shortcode functionality in text widgets.
  • In Custom Plugin Development: Integrate shortcodes into custom plugins.
  • Conditionally Display Content: Use shortcodes within if conditions.

Precautions While Using do_shortcode()

Although do_shortcode() is powerful, there are a few precautions you should take:

  1. Performance Considerations: Shortcodes that retrieve large amounts of data can slow down page loads.
  2. Security Risks: Be cautious when accepting user inputs through shortcodes.
  3. Ensure Shortcode Exists: Before running do_shortcode(), check if the shortcode is registered to avoid errors.

[pai-img]performance, security, wordpress[/ai-img]

Alternatives to do_shortcode()

Although do_shortcode() is useful, sometimes there are better alternatives:

  • Directly Calling a Function: If the shortcode is custom, consider calling the function instead.
  • Shortcode in Widgets Without Code: Some builder plugins support shortcodes without needing do_shortcode().

Final Thoughts

The do_shortcode() function is a great tool when integrating shortcodes within WordPress templates, but it should be used wisely. Always ensure it is necessary before implementing it in a theme or plugin to maintain performance and security.