How Do I Make Text Expandable in Squarespace?

Creating expandable text sections in Squarespace can enhance the user experience by keeping your web pages organized and clean, while still allowing interested users to dive deeper into specific topics. This technique is commonly used for FAQs, detailed explanations, or any content-rich areas of a website. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to achieve this through Squarespace:

Using Code Injection

Note: Custom code can affect your site's appearance and maintenance. Ensure you have backups and understand the implications of custom coding.

1. Access Code Injection Area:
2. Navigate to your Squarespace dashboard.

3. Go to Settings > Advanced > Code Injection.

4. Add CSS for Collapsible Sections:

5. In the Code Injection area, under the Header section, add the following CSS to style the expandable sections: ```css .collapse { cursor: pointer; background-color: #f1f1f1; padding: 10px; border: none; text-align: left; outline: none; font-size: 15px; transition: 0.4s; }

   .expandable-content { padding: 0 18px; display: none; overflow: hidden; background-color: #f9f9f9; } ```

6. Insert HTML & JavaScript:

7. Under the Footer section of the Code Injection area, insert the following HTML and JavaScript: html <script> document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', function() { var coll = document.getElementsByClassName("collapse"); for (var i = 0; i < coll.length; i++) { coll[i].addEventListener("click", function() { this.classList.toggle("active"); var content = this.nextElementSibling; if (content.style.display === "block") { content.style.display = "none"; } else { content.style.display = "block"; } }); } }); </script>

Adding Expandable Sections to Your Pages

1. Edit the Page Content:
2. Navigate to the page where you want to add the expandable text.

3. Click on the section to edit, and add a Code Block.

4. Add HTML for Expandable Text:

5. In the code block, insert the following HTML structure: html <button class="collapse">Click to Expand</button> <div class="expandable-content"> <p>Your expandable text goes here. You can include paragraphs, links, or any content you'd like.</p> </div>

6. Replace the text "Click to Expand" and the paragraph content with your appropriate headings and text.

7. Save and Preview:

8. Save the changes and preview your page. Click on the button or heading to ensure the content expands and collapses as expected.

Considerations and Limitations

1. Custom Code Risks:

2. Custom code may interfere with existing styles or functionality, especially when Squarespace updates its platform. Regularly check your site's appearance and performance after updates.

3. Mobile Responsiveness:

4. Ensure that your collapsible content works seamlessly across different devices. Test the feature on various screen sizes to verify its responsiveness.

5. Accessibility:

6. Make sure that your expandable content is accessible to all users, including those using screen readers. Consider adding ARIA attributes to improve accessibility.

7. Content Management:

8. Be mindful of the content you place within expandable sections to maintain the usability and SEO of your pages. Keywords and important information should still be visible to search engines.

Alternative Method: Using Accordion Blocks (For Some Squarespace Versions)

Some Squarespace templates and versions may have built-in 'accordion' functionalities:

1. Navigate to Edit Page Content:

2. In the page editor, select Insert Point where you want to add the accordion.

3. Add Accordion Block:

4. Choose Accordion Block from the menu (if available).

5. Customize the headings and content within each accordion item.

6. Configure Settings:

7. Adjust settings (if available) to control behavior like auto-collapse, initial state, and design.

8. Save and Preview:

9. Save your changes and preview to ensure the accordion functionalities work as intended.

Using either method, you can create a tidy and user-friendly website with expandable text sections on Squarespace. If you are less comfortable with coding, considering consulting with a Squarespace expert for custom implementations.