This lesson covers Blogger’s Gadgets (sidebar, header, footer widgets) — how to add, remove and configure them. The right gadgets dramatically improve reader experience.
2026 note: Originally published in 2014. The Gadget framework still works the same way in 2026 — add and edit from the “Layout” tab.
Most Useful Gadgets
- Search box: a chunk of visitors search.
- Labels / tag cloud: helps content discovery.
- Popular Posts: hooks first-time visitors.
- Archive: monthly/yearly navigation.
- Static Pages: About, Contact, Privacy.
- Social links: pointers to your profiles.
- Email subscribe: pair Blogger feed with Substack/Buttondown.
Gadgets to Skip
- Clock/calendar widgets — visitors already have phones.
- Weather — useful only if it’s part of your niche.
- Banner stacks — they kill page speed.
2026 Tip
Think mobile-first. The sidebar collapses below content on phones — every widget there must earn its space.
