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Kevin Murphy
24,380 Pointsfunctions.php -- Editing within theme caused parsing error, could not undo
Wanted to share an experience I had when attempting to modify my site's functions.php file. This was my first attempt modifying this file, figuring I could just delete the added code if things went awry.
I added code straight from codex but I must have placed it incorrectly as I received a parsing error. This error remained after I deleted the added code. I also could not access any of the WP admin menu options.
After some (frantic) digging I learned from a prior Wordpress support forum post that modifying the functions.php file is "non-reverseable". Even when you delete the offending code, the issue will remain.
Ultimately all turned out ok, but I had to go into cPanel and replace my functions.php file and reinstall my theme to restore back to normal.
Apparently it is common practice to make a copy of functions.php before making any changes to this template. I had no awareness of this and wanted to pass along. If you experienced anything similar, and/or have tips to share, please let me know.
3 Answers
Sean T. Unwin
28,690 PointsA good lesson learned the hard way. Heheh.
It's advisable to not edit files from within the admin dashboard. As you mentioned:
- backup your theme
- copy/download the file you want to edit
- make your edits
- test locally
- then upload the 'new' file which will overwrite the old one on the server.
Leonardo Hernandez
13,798 PointsAre you talking about the functions.php in wp-includes folder?
Kevin Murphy
24,380 PointsLeonardo - the functions.php file inside the theme that makes up the core set of theme templates.
Leonardo Hernandez
13,798 PointsLeonardo Hernandez
13,798 PointsHi Sean !
Kevin Murphy
24,380 PointsKevin Murphy
24,380 PointsAhh local testing - so much to remember, I didn't even consider that. That is excellent advice. Will definitely be part of my new process. Thanks!