# Enabling custom fields in the WordPress editor

> Show the Custom Fields box in the WordPress editor by turning it on from the Screen Options tab.

Source: https://helpcenter.ruachost.com/wordpress/guides/enabling-the-screen-options-custom-fields-on-wordpress-editor/

Since WordPress version 3.1, the **Screen Options tab** in the editor has been hidden by default, preventing direct access to **Custom Fields**. On **ruachost.com**, you can re‑enable this feature with just a few clicks.

## Why Enable Custom Fields?

- Add extra metadata to posts and pages.
- Useful for developers and advanced users customizing content.
- Helps integrate with plugins and themes that rely on custom fields.

## Steps to Enable Custom Fields in WordPress Editor

1. **Log in to WordPress** with an administrator account.
2. In the dashboard, go to **Posts → All Posts** (or **Pages → All Pages**).
3. Open a post or page in the editor.
4. In the top‑right corner of the editor, click the **three dots menu**.
5. Select **Preferences**.
6. In the **Panels** section, enable **Custom Fields**.
7. Click **Enable & Reload**.

✅ The editor will reload, and the **Custom Fields section** will now appear at the bottom of the page/post editor.

## Important Notes

- Custom Fields are hidden by default to simplify the editor for new users.
- Enabling them may slightly slow down the editor if many fields are used.
- Always test compatibility with themes and plugins before adding custom metadata.