> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://wplake.gitbook.io/advanced-views/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://wplake.gitbook.io/advanced-views/getting-started/introduction/how-advanced-views-works.md).

# How Advanced Views Works

## Overview

Advanced Views provides a structured approach for building dynamic WordPress websites.

Instead of placing custom display logic inside theme files or creating one-off solutions, Advanced Views separates your content, queries, templates, and front-end assets into reusable components.

The workflow is built around two main concepts:

**Layouts**\
Define how your content is displayed.

**Post Selections**\
Define which content should appear.

Together, they create a maintainable system that works across themes, page builders, and different types of WordPress projects.

## 1. Core Components

### Layouts

Layouts are the foundation of Advanced Views.

A Layout combines everything required to display a piece of content:

* Selected fields
* Template structure
* Styling
* Front-end behaviour

Examples:

* Blog card
* Hero section
* Team member profile
* Product feature
* Custom content block

Advanced Views prepares the structure for you while keeping full control available when you need it.

### Post Selections

Post Selections handle content queries.

They decide what content should be displayed and pass those results to a Layout.

Examples:

* Latest articles
* Featured products
* Related posts
* Filtered custom post types

This separation means the same Layout can be reused with different content sources.

## 2. Reusable Component Approach

Advanced Views encourages a component-based workflow.

Instead of rebuilding similar sections repeatedly, you create reusable building blocks.

Example:

A “Property Card” Layout can be used for:

* Latest properties
* Featured properties
* Properties by location

You update the Layout once, and every section using it remains consistent.

This helps larger websites stay organised as they grow.

## 3. Template Engine

Advanced Views uses a template-based workflow to keep your output clean and flexible.

When fields are selected, Advanced Views generates a structured template automatically.

The generated template provides:

* Available field variables
* Recommended structure
* A clean starting point

You can use the generated template immediately or customise it for your project requirements.

## 4. Front-End Asset Management

Each Layout can manage its own front-end assets.

Instead of spreading styles and scripts throughout your theme, component-related code stays connected.

This helps:

* Keep templates organised
* Improve maintainability
* Avoid unnecessary global code
* Make components easier to reuse

Your Layout can contain its structure, styling, and behaviour in one place.

## 5. Theme Independent Workflow

Advanced Views keeps your custom display logic separate from your theme.

Traditional WordPress customisations are often placed directly inside theme files, which can make redesigns and updates difficult.

With Advanced Views:

* Your components remain available when themes change
* Your structure stays consistent
* Your custom work is easier to maintain

## 6. Framework Reliability

Advanced Views is built around predictable structures.

Instead of relying on scattered snippets or page-specific customisations, your project follows a consistent workflow.

This provides:

* Clear organisation
* Easier debugging
* Better collaboration
* More maintainable websites

As projects become larger, having a reliable structure becomes increasingly important.

## 7. Performance-Focused Approach

Advanced Views is designed to output only what your project requires.

Because templates and assets are managed at the component level, your website avoids unnecessary overhead from unused features.

The goal is simple:

Create flexible dynamic websites while keeping the front end clean and efficient.

## 8. Built for Different WordPress Workflows

Advanced Views works alongside your existing setup.

Use it with:

* The block editor
* Page builders
* Classic themes
* Custom themes
* Custom fields
* Custom post types

It does not replace your workflow — it adds a structured layer for managing dynamic content.

For developers who prefer a ready-made foundation, the [Advanced Views Starter Theme](/advanced-views/getting-started/starter-theme.md) provides a lightweight starting point built around the same structured workflow.

## Summary

Advanced Views is built around a simple idea:

Separate what content appears from how that content is displayed.

Layouts manage presentation.

Post Selections manage queries.

Together with reusable components, templates, asset management, and theme independence, Advanced Views provides a structured foundation for building maintainable WordPress websites.

{% hint style="info" %}
Next: [Create your first Layout](/advanced-views/getting-started/introduction/creating-your-first-layout.md).
{% endhint %}