Why Add a Reading Progress Bar to WordPress?

A scroll reading progress bar is a visual indicator that shows visitors how much of your content they’ve read. It’s a small but powerful feature that can:

✅ Improve User Engagement – Encourages readers to scroll further

✅ Reduce Bounce Rates – Visitors stay longer when they see progress

✅ Enhance UX – Provides a sense of structure and completion

✅ Boost SEO – Increased engagement signals quality content to Google

Whether you run a blog, news site, or long-form content site, a progress bar keeps readers hooked! 📊

3 Easy Ways to Add a Reading Progress Bar in WordPress

Method 1: Using a Plugin (Easiest Way)

Install & activate “Reading Progress WP” or “WP Scroll Depth”

Go to Settings > Reading Progress

Customize color, position, and animation

Save & preview!

Method 2: Using Custom CSS (No Plugin Needed)

Go to Appearance > Customize > Additional CSS

Paste this code:

css

Copy

#reading-progress {  

    position: fixed;  

    top: 0;  

    left: 0;  

    height: 4px;  

    background: #3a7bd5;  

    z-index: 9999;  

}  

Add JavaScript (or use a plugin like “Header and Footer Scripts”)

Method 3: With a Page Builder (Elementor, Divi, etc.)

Use Elementor Pro’s Motion Effects

Enable “Scrolling Progress” in section settings

Adjust colors & animation

📹 Watch the Step-by-Step Video Tutorial: 

Best Practices for Scroll Progress Bars

🔹 Keep It Subtle – Don’t distract from content

🔹 Match Brand Colors – Use your theme’s palette

🔹 Test on Mobile – Ensure responsiveness

🔹 Track Analytics – Check if it improves time-on-page

Final Thoughts

Adding a scroll reading progress bar in WordPress is a quick win for better engagement. Whether you use a plugin, CSS, or a page builder, this small tweak can make a big difference!