How to Write Content and Use Shortcodes
This section explains how to use 3local's shortcodes for dynamic content insertion and how to take advantage of the built-in AI content tools for writing and editing pages, ensuring SEO-friendly, localised, and conversion-focused content.
- Before you begin, ensure:
- You are logged into your 3local dashboard.
- Your site is set up with at least one service and location.
- You understand what content you want to modify or generate (home, service, or location-specific).
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Understand Page Types and Shortcode Use
There are two primary content areas on 3local sites:
- Homepage content: Less shortcode-dependent, more static.
- Service/Location page content: Uses shortcodes extensively for dynamic personalisation.
Shortcodes Overview
Shortcodes dynamically pull and display data across all your service/location pages without hardcoding. This ensures consistency and easier updates across your site.
| Shortcode | Purpose |
|---|---|
3local | Business name |
[site_location] | Business address |
[client_website] | Your website URL |
[site_telephone] | Business phone number |
[service] | Name of the service for that page |
[location] | Location name for the current page |
[service_links] | Linked list of services |
[service_links false] | Unlinked list of services |
[map "keyword"] | Map centered on keyword (e.g. plumber) |
[cities_shortcode] | List of all location pages |
[cities_shortcode max_results=5] | Show only 5 location pages |
[cities_shortcode random=true] | Show random list of locations |