How to Add a Specific Code Syntax Highlighter for Blogger

Adding syntax highlighting to your code snippets can enhance readability and make your blog posts more appealing, especially for technical topics. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to implement a specific code syntax highlighter in your Blogger blog.

Why Use a Code Syntax Highlighter?

Improved Readability: Code snippets are easier to read and understand when properly highlighted.
Better Engagement: Well-formatted code can keep readers on your page longer, increasing engagement.
Professional Appearance: Syntax highlighting gives your blog a polished and professional look.

Steps to Add a Code Syntax Highlighter in Blogger

Follow these steps to implement a syntax highlighter on your Blogger site:

1. Choose a Syntax Highlighter

For this tutorial, we'll use Prism.js, a lightweight and modern syntax highlighter that supports various programming languages. You can find it at Prism.js.

2. Access Your Blogger Template

Go to Blogger and select your blog.
Navigate to Theme and click on Edit HTML.

3. Add Prism.js CSS and JavaScript

Just before the closing </head> tag, add the following links to include Prism.js:

<!-- Prism.js CSS -->
<link href="https://cdnjs.cloudflare.com/ajax/libs/prism/1.24.1/themes/prism.css" rel="stylesheet" />

<!-- Prism.js JavaScript -->
<script src="https://cdnjs.cloudflare.com/ajax/libs/prism/1.24.1/prism.js"></script>

4. Wrap Your Code Snippets

In your blog posts, wrap your code snippets with the appropriate <pre> and <code> tags. Here’s an example:

<pre><code class="language-js">
function helloWorld() {
    console.log('Hello, world!');
}
</code></pre>

5. Add Custom CSS (Optional)

You can customize the appearance of your code blocks by adding your own CSS. For example, to change the background color or font style, add this to the <style> section in your template:

pre {
    background: #f5f5f5;
    padding: 15px;
    border-radius: 5px;
    overflow-x: auto;
}

code {
    font-family: monospace;
}

6. Save and Test

After making the changes, click the Save button in the HTML editor. Go to your blog and create a new post or edit an existing one to test the syntax highlighting.

Example of a Complete Code Snippet

Here’s how a complete code snippet should look in your post:

<pre><code class="language-html">
<!DOCTYPE html>
<html lang="en">
<head>
    <meta charset="UTF-8">
    <meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1.0">
    <title>My First HTML Page</title>
</head>
<body>
    <h1>Hello World!</h1>
</body>
</html>
</code></pre>

Conclusion

Implementing a code syntax highlighter in your Blogger blog can significantly improve the presentation of code snippets. By following the steps outlined above, you’ll create a more engaging and professional experience for your readers.

Need Help?

If you have any questions or run into issues while adding the syntax highlighter, feel free to leave a comment below!

BAZZHOOD

Hi, my name is MNM. I am an SEO expert with over 10 years of experience in the SEO world. This is my free blog, and it has been recognized as the top blogging tips blog from 2020 to 2024. I write the best content for beginners to take their blogging journey to the next level! Don't forget to follow my Facebook, Instagram, and other social media platform accounts.