Setting post terms in WordPress using wp_set_post_terms
The wp_set_post_terms function in WordPress is used to set the terms for a post. This function can be useful for assigning or updating the taxonomy terms for a specific post. It allows you to specify the taxonomy and terms that should be associated with the post, providing a convenient way to manage and organize content within your WordPress site.
Parameters Accepted by wp_set_post_terms Function
The WordPress wp_set_post_terms function accepts the following parameters:
$post_id(int, optional): The Post ID. Does not default to the ID of the global$post.$terms(string|array, optional, default: ”): An array of terms to set for the post, or a string of terms separated by commas.$taxonomy(string, optional, default: ‘post_tag’): Taxonomy name. Default is ‘post_tag’.$append(bool, optional, default: false): If true, don’t delete existing terms, just add on. If false, replace the terms with the new terms.
Value Returned by wp_set_post_terms Function
The wp_set_post_terms function returns the following:
Array of term taxonomy IDs of affected terms. It may also return WP_Error or false on failure.
Examples
How to set post terms in WordPress
The wp_set_post_terms function in WordPress is commonly used to set the terms for a post.
$post_id = 123;
$terms = array( 'news', 'updates' );
$taxonomy = 'category';
wp_set_post_terms( $post_id, $terms, $taxonomy );
This code snippet sets the terms ‘news’ and ‘updates’ for the post with ID 123 in the ‘category’ taxonomy using the wp_set_post_terms function.
How to set post terms with append mode in WordPress
You can also use the wp_set_post_terms function to append terms to a post without overwriting existing ones.
$post_id = 123;
$terms = array( 'new-term' );
$taxonomy = 'category';
$append = true;
wp_set_post_terms( $post_id, $terms, $taxonomy, $append );
This code snippet appends the term ‘new-term’ to the post with ID 123 in the ‘category’ taxonomy using the wp_set_post_terms function with the append mode enabled.
How to handle errors when setting post terms in WordPress
It’s important to handle errors when using the wp_set_post_terms function to set post terms.
$post_id = 123;
$terms = array( 'news', 'updates' );
$taxonomy = 'category';
$result = wp_set_post_terms( $post_id, $terms, $taxonomy );
if ( is_wp_error( $result ) ) {
// Handle the error
echo $result->get_error_message();
}
This code snippet sets the terms ‘news’ and ‘updates’ for the post with ID 123 in the ‘category’ taxonomy using the wp_set_post_terms function, and then checks for errors using the is_wp_error function.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the wp_set_post_terms function is a valuable feature for developers working with WordPress. It allows for the easy manipulation of post taxonomy terms, providing a simple and efficient way to assign or remove terms from a post. By understanding how to use this function effectively, developers can enhance the functionality and organization of their WordPress websites. With its flexibility and ease of use, wp_set_post_terms is a valuable asset for any WordPress developer.