๐ Documentation
Complete guide to installing, configuring, and getting the most out of OptinPlot
Installation
System Requirements
- WordPress: Version 5.8 or higher
- PHP: Version 7.4 or higher (8.0+ recommended)
- MySQL: Version 5.7 or higher
- Memory: 128MB minimum (256MB recommended for AI features)
- HTTPS: Required for secure form submissions
Installing the Plugin
- Download the plugin ZIP file from your purchase confirmation email or WarriorPlus receipt.
- Log in to your WordPress admin dashboard at
yourdomain.com/wp-admin - Navigate to Plugins โ Add New and click the "Upload Plugin" button at the top of the page.
- Choose the ZIP file you downloaded and click "Install Now".
- Click "Activate Plugin" once installation completes.
Tip: After activation, you'll see a new "OptinPlot" menu item in your WordPress admin sidebar. This is your central hub for all features.
Post-Installation Checklist
- โ Configure at least one ESP integration
- โ Set up SMTP for newsletter sending (optional)
- โ Add your AI API key for lead magnet generation (optional)
- โ Create your first opt-in page
Quick Start Guide
Get your first opt-in page live in under 10 minutes with this quick start guide.
Step 1: Choose Your ESP
Before creating opt-in pages, decide where you want leads to go. OptinPlot integrates with 7 major email service providers. Go to OptinPlot โ Settings โ ESP and configure your preferred provider.
Step 2: Create Your First Opt-in Page
- Go to OptinPlot โ Templates and browse the 24 available templates.
- Click "Use Template" on one that fits your niche (MMO, health, crypto, etc.).
- Customize the content using the WordPress Customizer โ edit headlines, descriptions, colors, and images.
- Configure form settings โ select your ESP and choose which list to add subscribers to.
- Click "Publish" and your page is live!
Step 3: Create a Lead Magnet (Optional)
If you want to offer a free ebook or guide in exchange for emails:
- Go to OptinPlot โ Lead Magnets and click "Create New".
- Enter your niche (e.g., "weight loss", "crypto investing").
- Click "Generate Ideas" โ AI creates 6 lead magnet concepts.
- Select one and click "Generate Content" โ AI writes 4,000+ words.
- Click "Generate PDF" then "Create Download Page".
Step 4: Link It All Together
In your opt-in page settings, set the "Thank You URL" to your lead magnet's download page. Now when someone subscribes, they're automatically redirected to download their free guide!
Pro Tip: Add an upsell offer on your download page to monetize your new subscribers immediately.
ESP Integration Setup
OptinPlot integrates with 7 major email service providers. Configure your preferred ESP to automatically sync new leads to your email lists.
GetResponse
- Log in to GetResponse and go to Menu โ Integrations & API โ API.
- Click "Generate API Key" and copy the key.
- In OptinPlot โ Settings โ ESP, select "GetResponse" and paste your API key.
- Click "Test Connection" to verify, then save.
Mailchimp
- Log in to Mailchimp and click your profile icon โ Account & billing.
- Go to Extras โ API keys and click "Create A Key".
- Copy the API key (it will look like:
xxxxxxxxxx-us1). - Paste into OptinPlot โ Settings โ ESP under Mailchimp.
Note: The suffix (e.g., "-us1") indicates your data center. Make sure to include it when entering your key.
ConvertKit
- Log in to ConvertKit and go to Settings โ Advanced.
- Copy your API Key from the API section.
- Paste into OptinPlot and test the connection.
AWeber
- Log in to AWeber and go to My Apps in your account settings.
- Create a new app or use an existing one to get your API credentials.
- Enter the Consumer Key and Consumer Secret in OptinPlot.
- Complete the OAuth authorization when prompted.
ActiveCampaign
- Log in to ActiveCampaign and go to Settings โ Developer.
- Copy your API URL and API Key.
- Enter both values in OptinPlot settings.
Brevo (Sendinblue)
- Log in to Brevo and go to your account name โ SMTP & API.
- Click "Create a new API key" and copy it.
- Paste into OptinPlot under Brevo/Sendinblue.
Beehiiv
- Log in to Beehiiv and go to Settings โ Integrations.
- Generate an API key with write permissions.
- Copy your Publication ID from the URL or settings.
- Enter both values in OptinPlot.
Don't see your ESP? If your email provider has an API, contact support and we'll look into adding it. You can also collect leads in the local database and export as CSV.
SMTP Configuration
SMTP configuration is required for the built-in newsletter system. OptinPlot supports 4 reliable SMTP providers.
Why Use an SMTP Provider?
WordPress's default mail function often lands in spam or doesn't send at all. SMTP providers ensure your newsletters actually reach your subscribers' inboxes.
SendGrid
- Create a SendGrid account at sendgrid.com (free tier available).
- Go to Settings โ API Keys and create a new key with "Mail Send" permissions.
- Copy the API key (you'll only see it once!).
- In OptinPlot โ Settings โ SMTP, select SendGrid and paste your key.
- Verify your sending domain in SendGrid for best deliverability.
Mailgun
- Create a Mailgun account at mailgun.com.
- Add and verify your domain in the Mailgun dashboard.
- Go to API Security and copy your Private API Key.
- Enter your API key and domain in OptinPlot settings.
Amazon SES
- Set up Amazon SES in your AWS Console.
- Verify your sending domain or email address.
- Create IAM credentials with SES sending permissions.
- Enter your Access Key ID, Secret Key, and Region in OptinPlot.
Important: New AWS SES accounts start in "sandbox mode" with sending limits. Request production access for full sending capabilities.
SMTP.com
- Create an SMTP.com account and verify your email.
- Navigate to API Settings in your dashboard.
- Copy your API Key.
- Enter it in OptinPlot with your sender details.
Testing Your Configuration
After setting up SMTP, always send a test email:
- Go to OptinPlot โ Newsletters
- Create a simple test newsletter
- Click "Send Test" and enter your email
- Check your inbox (and spam folder) for the test email
AI API Setup
The AI lead magnet generator requires an API key from either OpenAI or Anthropic (Claude). You pay the AI provider directly based on usage.
Pricing Comparison
| Provider | Model | Cost per Lead Magnet | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| OpenAI | GPT-4o | ~$0.15 - $0.30 | Fast, reliable generation |
| Anthropic | Claude 4 Sonnet | ~$0.09 - $0.18 | Best value, great quality |
| Anthropic | Claude 4 Opus | ~$0.45 - $0.90 | Highest quality output |
| Anthropic | Claude 3.5 Haiku | ~$0.02 - $0.04 | Budget-conscious users |
OpenAI Setup
- Go to platform.openai.com and create an account or log in.
- Navigate to API Keys in your account settings.
- Click "Create new secret key" and copy it immediately (you won't see it again).
- Add payment method under Billing to enable API usage.
- In OptinPlot โ Settings โ AI, select OpenAI and paste your key.
Anthropic (Claude) Setup
- Go to console.anthropic.com and create an account.
- Navigate to API Keys in your dashboard.
- Create a new API key and copy it.
- Add credits to your account (minimum $5).
- In OptinPlot โ Settings โ AI, select Claude and paste your key.
- Choose your preferred model (Sonnet recommended for best value).
Recommendation: Start with Claude Sonnet for the best balance of quality and cost. You can generate approximately 50+ lead magnets for under $10.
Creating Opt-in Pages
Available Templates
OptinPlot includes 24 professionally designed templates across multiple niches:
๐ Make Money Online
Income Proof Screenshot, Laptop Lifestyle, Long-Form Sales Letter
๐ฐ Crypto & Finance
Crypto Alpha Signals, Trading Dashboard Style
๐๏ธ Health & Fitness
Transformation Results, Wellness & Calm
๐ Real Estate
Real Estate Investor
๐ฅ Webinars & Video
Live Webinar Registration, Video Sales Letter, Free Course Access
๐ Lead Magnets
3D Ebook Showcase, Checklist/Cheatsheet, Industry Report
Creating a New Page
- Go to OptinPlot โ Templates and browse the available designs.
- Click "Use Template" on your chosen template.
- Enter a title for your opt-in page (this also becomes the URL slug).
- The WordPress Customizer opens โ edit all elements in real-time.
Customizer Options
Each template can be customized with:
- Headlines: Main headline, subheadline, and supporting text
- Images: Hero images, ebook covers, author photos
- Colors: Primary, secondary, accent, background colors
- Button: Text, color, and action URL
- Form Fields: Name field (optional), email field label, button text
- Thank You: Redirect URL after submission or custom message
Form Configuration
- Select your ESP from the dropdown (must be configured in Settings first)
- Choose a list/audience where new subscribers will be added
- Optional: Add tags to segment subscribers
- Set the thank you behavior: redirect URL or show message
Best Practice: Keep the form simple โ just email, or name + email. Every additional field reduces conversions by approximately 10%.
AI Lead Magnet Generator
Create professional 4,000+ word ebooks, guides, and reports in minutes using AI. Each lead magnet includes real resource links and professional formatting.
Generating Ideas
- Go to OptinPlot โ Lead Magnets and click "Create New".
- Enter your niche in the text field. Be specific โ "intermittent fasting for women over 40" works better than just "weight loss".
- Click "Generate Ideas" โ AI creates 6 unique lead magnet concepts.
- Review the ideas โ each includes a title and brief description.
Generating Content
- Select your favorite idea by clicking on it.
- Click "Generate Content" โ this takes 2-4 minutes.
- AI writes 4,000+ words of in-depth, valuable content.
- Content includes 15-25 real links to tools, resources, and references.
Editing Your Lead Magnet
After generation, use the built-in editor to:
- Edit or rewrite any sections
- Add your own images
- Insert affiliate links
- Add your branding and contact info
- Adjust formatting and structure
Creating the PDF
- Click "Generate PDF" when you're happy with the content.
- A professional PDF is created with proper styling and formatting.
- Preview the PDF to ensure it looks correct.
Creating the Download Page
- Click "Create Download Page" to generate a secure download page.
- Each download uses a unique token โ links can't be shared directly.
- Optional: Add an upsell offer that appears on the download page.
- Copy the page URL and use it as your opt-in thank you redirect.
Important: Always review AI-generated content before publishing. While the AI produces high-quality content, you should verify facts and ensure it matches your brand voice.
Managing Leads
All leads captured through your opt-in pages are stored locally in WordPress, in addition to being sent to your ESP.
Viewing Leads
Go to OptinPlot โ Leads to see all captured leads. The table shows:
- Email: The subscriber's email address
- Name: If collected
- Source: Which opt-in page they came from
- Date: When they subscribed
- Status: Synced to ESP, pending, or error
Searching and Filtering
- Search: Find leads by email or name
- Filter by source: See leads from a specific opt-in page
- Filter by date: View leads from a specific time period
- Filter by status: Find failed syncs that need attention
Exporting Leads
- Apply any filters you want (or leave unfiltered for all leads).
- Click "Export CSV" at the top of the leads table.
- Download the CSV file containing all matching leads.
- Import into any tool โ Excel, Google Sheets, or another ESP.
Analytics
Track the performance of your opt-in pages with built-in analytics. See which pages and templates convert best.
Dashboard Overview
The analytics dashboard shows:
- Total Views: How many times your opt-in pages were viewed
- Total Conversions: How many people submitted the form
- Conversion Rate: Percentage of visitors who converted
- Trend Charts: Views and conversions over time
Per-Page Analytics
Click on any opt-in page to see its individual stats:
- Daily, weekly, and monthly views
- Conversion rate trends
- Best performing days/times
Using Analytics to Improve
- Low conversion rate (<10%): Try a different headline or offer
- High views, low conversions: Your traffic may not be targeted enough
- Compare templates: A/B test different designs for the same offer
- Check mobile vs desktop: Ensure your page works well on all devices
Tips & Best Practices
Opt-in Page Optimization
- Use specific headlines: "Lose 10 Pounds in 30 Days" beats "Weight Loss Guide"
- Match your traffic source: If running Facebook ads, mirror the ad copy on your page
- Remove navigation: Don't give visitors a way to leave without converting
- Use social proof: Mention subscriber counts, results, or credentials
- Create urgency: Limited time offers or bonuses increase conversions
- Mobile-first: Test your pages on mobile โ that's where most traffic comes from
Lead Magnet Success
- Solve one specific problem: "5 Exercises for Lower Back Pain" > "Complete Fitness Guide"
- Deliver quick wins: Readers should get value within the first few pages
- Include actionable steps: Checklists and templates perform better than theory
- Brand it professionally: Add your logo, consistent colors, and contact info
- Tease the upsell: Mention your paid offer naturally within the content
Newsletter Best Practices
- Send consistently: Weekly is ideal โ subscribers forget you if you disappear
- Subject line is everything: Spend time crafting compelling subjects
- One CTA per email: Don't overwhelm readers with multiple asks
- Personalize when possible: Use subscriber names and segment by interest
- Test before sending: Always send yourself a test email first
- Monitor deliverability: High bounce rates hurt your sender reputation
AI Content Tips
- Be specific with niches: "Keto diet for busy professionals" gives better results than "dieting"
- Always edit the output: Add your personal stories and examples
- Verify external links: AI may occasionally reference outdated URLs
- Inject your voice: Rewrite sections to match your brand's tone
- Use Claude Sonnet for best value: Great quality at the lowest cost
Growing Your List
- Create multiple lead magnets: Different offers attract different segments
- Add opt-ins to your content: In-content offers convert better than sidebar widgets
- Use exit-intent popups: Capture abandoning visitors (plugin not included)
- Cross-promote: Mention your lead magnet on social media, YouTube, podcasts
- Partner up: Guest post or do joint ventures with complementary creators
Troubleshooting
Common Issues
Form submissions not working
- Check that your ESP is configured correctly in Settings
- Verify your API key is valid and has write permissions
- Check browser console for JavaScript errors
- Ensure your site has HTTPS enabled
Leads not syncing to ESP
- Test your ESP connection in Settings
- Check if the selected list/audience exists in your ESP
- Look for error messages in the Leads section
- Try disconnecting and reconnecting your ESP
Newsletter emails not sending
- Verify SMTP is configured correctly
- Send a test email first to confirm SMTP works
- Check if WordPress cron is running:
define('DISABLE_WP_CRON', false); - Look at the queue status in the Newsletters section
AI generation fails
- Check your API key is valid and has credits
- Verify your account has sufficient balance (OpenAI/Anthropic)
- Try a different AI model if one is having issues
- Check your server's PHP memory limit (256MB recommended)
PDF generation fails
- Ensure your server has enough memory (256MB+ recommended)
- Check file permissions on the uploads directory
- Try regenerating โ sometimes it's a temporary server issue
Getting Help
If you've tried the troubleshooting steps and still have issues:
- Check the FAQ on our website for common questions
- Contact support via our contact form with details about your issue
- Include: WordPress version, PHP version, error messages, and steps to reproduce
Pro Tip: Enable WordPress debug mode temporarily to see detailed error messages: define('WP_DEBUG', true); in wp-config.php