Code Blocks in Blogger: The Ultimate Guide (No Theme Edits)

Sharing code snippets effectively is essential for any technical blogger. In Blogger, "script boxes" (or code blocks) are the key to presenting your code clearly and professionally. This guide provides a comprehensive walkthrough, from basic HTML to advanced syntax highlighting, all without touching your theme's code!

Why Use Code Blocks?

Code blocks offer numerous benefits:

• Enhanced Readability: They visually separate code from text.
• Formatting Preservation: They maintain indentation and line breaks.
• Improved Comprehension: Syntax highlighting color-codes code elements.
• Professional Look: Well-formatted code blocks elevate your blog's credibility.

Method 1: The Foundation - HTML <pre> and <code>

The simplest approach uses HTML's <pre> (preformatted text) and <code> (code) tags:

function myFunction() {
  console.log("Hello, Blogger!");
}
    

<pre> preserves formatting, while <code> signifies code.

Limitations: Basic formatting, no syntax highlighting.

Method 2: Shine with Syntax Highlighting (Recommended)

For polished code, use Highlight.js. The per-post method is best:

1. 1. Add Highlight.js to Your Post

   In your Blogger post (HTML view): Add this at the start of your content:

   
   <link rel="stylesheet"
         href="//cdnjs.cloudflare.com/ajax/libs/highlight.js/11.7.0/styles/default.min.css">
   <script src="//cdnjs.cloudflare.com/ajax/libs/highlight.js/11.7.0/highlight.min.js"></script>
   <script>hljs.highlightAll();</script>
               

2. 2. Use the Correct HTML for Your Code

   Use this structure for your code:

   
   // Your JavaScript code here
   function myFunction() {
     console.log("Hello, Highlight.js!");
   }
               

   Replace language-javascript with the correct language class (e.g., language-python, language-html). See the Highlight.js docs.

Why Per-Post is Best: No theme edits, more flexibility, fewer conflicts.

Best Practices

• Monospace Font: Essential for code clarity.
• Escape Special Characters: Use <, >, & for <, >, &.
• Line Numbers (Optional): Check Highlight.js docs.
• Keep Code Concise: Break down long blocks.
• Test Your Code: Always verify it works.
• Descriptive Language Classes: Critical for Highlight.js.
• Highlight.js Themes: Customize the look.

Example (HTML & JavaScript):

<div id="myDiv">This is HTML</div>
<script>
  document.getElementById("myDiv").textContent = "Hello!";
</script>
    

Conclusion

Mastering code blocks elevates your Blogger content. Highlight.js (per-post) is the most effective way to showcase your code beautifully.