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v 1.1.0
Last updated: 05/03/2026

Dashboard Columns

Customize the dashboard layout by choosing how many columns (1-4) to display. Your selection will appear in Screen Options and control the dashboard widget arrangement

Overview

Dashboard Columns lets you choose how many columns your WordPress dashboard displays—1, 2, 3, or 4. By default, WordPress only offers 1 or 2 columns in Screen Options. This module adds 3 and 4 column layouts so you can arrange widgets in a wider grid. Your choice appears in Screen Options and is saved per user. No configuration needed—enable the module and the extra options appear on the dashboard.

Who is this for?
Administrators and power users who want a more flexible dashboard layout, or anyone who prefers a wider grid to see more widgets at once without scrolling.

Features

1 to 4 Column Layouts
Choose 1, 2, 3, or 4 columns from Screen Options on the dashboard. WordPress normally limits you to 1 or 2—this module adds 3 and 4.
Screen Options Integration
The column selector appears in the standard Screen Options tab at the top of the dashboard. No separate settings page.
Per-User Preference
Each user's column choice is saved in their profile. Your layout stays as you set it when you return.
Widget Drag and Drop
Dashboard widgets remain sortable in all layouts. Drag and drop works correctly in 3 and 4 column layouts.
Responsive
On smaller screens, the layout adjusts. Single column on narrow viewports; multi-column on wider screens.
Zero Configuration
No settings page. Enable the module and the options appear on the dashboard.

How It Works

1
Enable the Module
Go to WP PowerSuite, find "Dashboard Columns" in the module list, and click the Enable button.
2
Open the Dashboard
Go to Dashboard (or the main admin screen). Click Screen Options at the top.
3
Choose Columns
Under "Layout," you'll see options for 1, 2, 3, or 4 columns. Select the layout you prefer.
4
Arrange Widgets
Drag dashboard widgets between columns. Your layout and widget order are saved automatically.
Performance Note
Lightweight. The module only loads CSS and a small JavaScript file on the dashboard (index.php). No database queries beyond WordPress's built-in user meta for layout preference. Minimal impact on page load.

Installation & Activation

1
Install WP PowerSuite
Make sure the WP PowerSuite plugin is installed and activated on your site.
2
Enable the Module
Go to the WP PowerSuite menu, find "Dashboard Columns" in the module list, and click the Enable button.
3
Use Screen Options
Visit the Dashboard and open Screen Options. Choose your preferred number of columns (1–4).
Requirements
PHP 8.1 or higher WordPress 6.0 or higher Permission to read (any logged-in user can change their dashboard layout)

Use Cases

  • Compact
    Fit more widgets on screen without scrolling
  • Grid
    Organize widgets in a 3 or 4 column grid
  • Responsive
    Match your monitor size—wider screens benefit from more columns
  • Condensed
    Reduce vertical scrolling when you have many dashboard widgets
  • ProLayout
    Create a cleaner layout for power users who manage multiple areas

Frequently Asked Questions

Troubleshooting

  • I don't see 3 or 4 column options
    Make sure the module is enabled in WP PowerSuite. Refresh the dashboard page. The options appear in Screen Options—click it to expand. On very narrow screens, some options may be hidden.
  • Widgets won't drag
    Ensure JavaScript is enabled. Try refreshing the page. If you use a plugin that modifies the dashboard, it may conflict—try disabling other dashboard plugins temporarily.
  • Layout looks broken
    Clear your browser cache. The module uses CSS media queries—very old browsers may not support them. Try a modern browser.