---
title: "How to Limit the Post Excerpt in WordPress?"
url: https://nexterwp.com/docs/limit-post-excerpt-in-wordpress/
date: 2023-05-06
modified: 2026-04-14
author: "Aditya Sharma"
description: "In WordPress, displaying the post excerpt can provide a brief overview of the blog post to the readers. However, sometimes the default excerpt length may be too long or too..."
image: https://nexterwp.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/limit-post-excerpt-in-wordpress-1024x519.jpg
word_count: 221
---

# How to Limit the Post Excerpt in WordPress?

## Key Takeaways

- Nexter Blocks allows users to limit blog post excerpts by character or word count.
- The Post Listing block requires installation and activation of Nexter Blocks to function properly.
- Users can set the maximum word count for excerpts by selecting 'By Words' in the Excerpt Limit section.

In WordPress, displaying the post excerpt can provide a brief overview of the blog post to the readers. However, sometimes the default excerpt length may be too long or too short. In such cases, limiting the post excerpt can be beneficial.

With the Post Listing block from the Nexter Blocks, you can easily limit the blog post excerpt by character or word count.

*To check the complete feature overview documentation of the Nexter Blocks Post Listing block,* [click here](/docs/post-listing-block-settings-overview/).

***Requirement  - This block is a part of the Nexter Blocks, make sure it's installed & activated to enjoy all its powers.***

[LIVE BLOCK LINK](https://nexterwp.com/nexter-blocks/listing/wordpress-post-listing/)

To do this, add the Post Listing block on the page, and select the appropriate listing type, post type, style and layout.

Then go to the **Show Excerpt/Content** section under the **Extra Options** tab.

> *Note: Turn on the ****Show Excerpt/Content**** toggle if it is turned off.*

To limit the excerpt by word count, select **By Words** from the **Excerpt Limit** section and set the desired number in the **Maximum Words** field.

> *Note: You can also limit the excerpt by characters, by selecting ****By**** ****Character**** from the ****Excerpt Limit**** section*.

This will keep all the blog post's excerpt length to an equivalent number of words in the listing.

Also, check [How to Limit Blog Post Title in WordPress](https://nexterwp.com/docs/limit-blog-post-title-in-wordpress/).

## Frequently Asked Questions

**Q: What should I do if the excerpt isn't showing up in the Post Listing block?**
A: If the excerpt isn't displaying, ensure that the Show Excerpt/Content toggle is turned on in the Extra Options tab. This toggle must be activated for the excerpt to appear. If it's off, the block will not show any excerpt, which can be a common oversight when setting up the Post Listing block.

**Q: What happens if I set the excerpt limit too low?**
A: Setting the excerpt limit too low may truncate important information, leaving readers without enough context about the post. It's best to find a balance that provides a clear overview while maintaining reader interest. Consider testing different limits to see what works best for your audience.

**Q: Does the Post Listing block work with other page builders besides Gutenberg?**
A: The Post Listing block is designed primarily for Gutenberg, as part of Nexter Blocks. While it may be used with Elementor and Bricks, its full functionality and features are optimized for the Gutenberg experience. If you're using another builder, you might not get the same results.

**Q: What are the best practices for setting the excerpt length in WordPress?**
A: Best practices suggest keeping your excerpt concise yet informative, typically between 20 to 40 words. This length is often enough to engage readers without overwhelming them. Use the Excerpt Limit settings in the Post Listing block to find the ideal length that fits your site's design.