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How to enable and use shortcodes in WordPress widgets

By Sean Doyle · · 1 min read

How to enable and use shortcodes in WordPress widgets using a PHP code. The code on this webpage will allow you to use shortcodes inside WordPress widgets. It works just like default widgets that utilize the do_shortcode function.

WordPress shortcodes were created to be used as a shortcut;  Therefor, by default shortcodes do not translate when placed into the WordPress text widget or other widget that allows you to input text. Furthermore, most WordPress themes do not include the function that allows you to the use of shortcodes inside WordPress widgets. However, if you use this code you will be able to use the shortcodes programmed by your theme inside your widget areas.

Copy and paste the PHP code below into your current theme’s functions.php file and click Update.

add_filter('widget_text', 'do_shortcode');
Tags: PHP WordPress

Sean Doyle

Sean is a tech author and security researcher with more than 20 years of experience in cybersecurity, privacy, malware analysis, analytics, and online marketing. He focuses on clear reporting, deep technical investigation, and practical guidance that helps readers stay safe in a fast-moving digital landscape. His work continues to appear in respected publications, including articles written for Private Internet Access. Through Botcrawl and his ongoing cybersecurity coverage, Sean provides trusted insights on data breaches, malware threats, and online safety for individuals and businesses worldwide.

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11 Comments

  1. PHP Web Developer (@sufalamtech)

    I know it’s an old article, but had a question.

    I followed the directions, but when I add the [sidecode] to my post content, that is what is displayed on the page output. I don’t see the sidebar, but rather the shortcode txt. Is there another step to get the content area to parse the shortcode?

  2. direclapton

    Another useful piece of code, thanks!

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