# Adding a confirmation message before publishing in WordPress

> Add a confirmation prompt to the WordPress Publish button so authors double-check before content goes live.

Source: https://helpcenter.ruachost.com/wordpress/guides/adding-confirmation-message-while-publishing-content-in-wordpress/

By default, WordPress publishes posts and pages immediately when you click the **Publish** button. To reduce the risk of publishing content with errors, you can add a **confirmation message** that prompts the author to double‑check before publishing. On **ruachost.com**, this can be achieved by adding a small script to your theme.

## Why Add a Confirmation Message?

- Prevents accidental publishing of incomplete or incorrect content.
- Gives authors a chance to review before making content live.
- Improves editorial workflow and site quality.

## Steps to Add Confirmation Message

1. **Log in to WordPress** with an administrator account.
2. In the dashboard, go to **Appearance → Theme Editor**.
3. From the right‑hand column, select the file named **functions.php**.
4. Scroll to the bottom of the file and add the following code:

   ```
   add_action('admin_print_footer_scripts', 'wp_confirm_publish');
   function wp_confirm_publish() {
       echo "<script>
       jQuery(document).ready(function($){
           $('#publishing-action input[name=\"publish\"]').click(function(){
               if(confirm('Are you sure you want to publish this?')){
                   return true;
               } else {
                   $('#publishing-action .spinner').hide();
                   $('#publishing-action img').hide();
                   $(this).removeClass('button-primary-disabled');
                   return false;
               }
           });
       });
       </script>";
   }
   ```
5. Click **Update File** to save changes.

✅ Now, whenever you click **Publish**, WordPress will display a confirmation message before proceeding.

## Important Notes

- Always **back up your theme files** before editing.
- Consider creating a **child theme** to preserve changes during updates.
- This customization applies to the **Classic Editor**. If you’re using the **Block Editor (Gutenberg)**, you may need a plugin or custom script adjustment.

## ✅ Summary

- Edit `functions.php` → Add confirmation script → Save changes.
- WordPress sites hosted at **ruachost.com** will now prompt authors with a confirmation message before publishing.