Elementor Advanced Custom Fields and Custom Post Types Tutorial

What Are Custom Post Types (CPT) & Advanced Custom Fields (ACF)?

1. Custom Post Types (CPT)

CPTs let you create content types beyond default posts/pages, such as:

• Portfolios

• Testimonials

• Real Estate Listings

• Product Catalogs

2. Advanced Custom Fields (ACF)

ACF adds custom data fields to posts, users, or CPTs. For example:

• Location maps for property listings

• Price fields for products

• Client logos for case studies

Why Use ACF + Elementor for Custom Post Types?

💡 Key Advantage: Create unique, visually rich content that ranks better and converts visitors.

Step-by-Step Guide: Create CPTs with ACF & Display in Elementor

▶️ Follow Along with Video Tutorial

Step 1: Install Required Plugins

1. Advanced Custom Fields (ACF) – Download here

2. Elementor (Free/Pro)

3. Custom Post Type UI (Optional) – For easier CPT creation

Step 2: Create a Custom Post Type

Method A: Using Code (Recommended for Developers)
Add to functions.php:

Method B: Using “Custom Post Type UI” Plugin

1. Go to CPT UI → Add New Post Type.

2. Enter name (e.g., “Portfolio”) and settings.

3. Click Save Post Type.

Step 3: Add Custom Fields with ACF

1. Go to ACF → Field Groups → Add New.

2. Add fields (e.g., “Client Name”, “Project Year”, “Website URL”).

3. Set location rules to display on your CPT.

Step 4: Design the CPT Template in Elementor

1. Go to Templates → Theme Builder → Add New (Single Portfolio).

2. Drag ACF widgets (via “Dynamic Tags”) to display custom fields.

3. Style with Elementor’s design tools.

Step 5: Display CPTs with Elementor Loop Grid

1. Add Posts Widget to a page.

2. Set Source = Your CPT (e.g., “Portfolio”).

3. Customize the layout with ACF dynamic data.

Key Features of Advanced Custom Fields (ACF)

1. 30+ Field Types

• Text, WYSIWYG, Image, File, Repeater, Gallery, Google Map

2. Conditional Logic

Show/hide fields based on user selections.

3. Seamless Elementor Integration

Display ACF fields via Dynamic Tags in Elementor Pro.

4. Developer-Friendly

• PHP functions: get_field(), the_field()

• REST API support for headless sites

5. Free & Premium Versions

Free version covers most use cases; Pro adds repeaters, clones, etc.

SEO Benefits of Using ACF + CPTs

1. Rich Structured Data

• Google prefers organized content (e.g., FAQs, How-Tos).

• ACF helps create schema markup-ready fields.

2. Lower Bounce Rates

• Engaging, unique layouts keep visitors longer.

3. Keyword Targeting

• Optimize each CPT field (e.g., “Best Interior Design Projects in [City]”).

4. Internal Linking Opportunities

• Link related CPTs (e.g., “View more projects →”).

Pro Tips for ACF + Elementor CPTs

1. Use Repeater Fields for Lists

Ideal for:

• Team member bios

• Product features

• FAQ sections

2. Enable “Show in REST API”

Allows headless WordPress integrations.

3. Combine with Elementor Dynamic Conditions

Show/hide sections based on ACF field values.

4. Cache CPTs for Speed

Use WP Rocket or LiteSpeed Cache to optimize performance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Is ACF free?

✅ Yes! The core plugin is free with optional Pro upgrades.

Q2. Do I need Elementor Pro?

⚠️ For dynamic ACF data, yes. Free users can use shortcodes or PHP.

Q3. Can I use CPTs without coding?

🛠️ Yes! Plugins like Custom Post Type UI simplify the process.

Q4. Will this slow down my site?

⚡ Not significantly, but cache CPTs for best performance.

Q5. How to display ACF fields in Elementor?

🎨 Use Dynamic Tags (Elementor Pro) or shortcodes.

ACF + Elementor + Custom Post Types unlock next-level WordPress flexibility:

✔ Create structured content (portfolios, listings, directories)
✔ Design visually with Elementor (no coding)
✔ Boost SEO with rich, organized data

🚀 Get Started Now:

1. Install ACF

2. Watch Tutorial

📢 Need help? Ask in the comments!