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How to Configure the Directory Block

Introduction #

The LearnDash App Directory Block allows you to map different post types to create custom archive-style listings within your app. This block provides a flexible, single-block layout designed to enhance user engagement and maintain design consistency.

Note: The Directory Block must be the only block on a screen. It cannot be used alongside other blocks.

Add the Directory Block #

  1. Go to your Learndash App > App Pages
  2. Edit or Add a New App Page
  1. Open your App Page editor.
  2. Click the Toggle Block Inserter.
  1. Search for Directory, then drag the Directory Block onto the canvas.

Hover Preview:

  • When inserted, the block shows a skeleton preview layout.
  • Placeholders labeled META 1, META 2, META 3, and META 4 indicate custom metadata positions.

Configure Block Settings #

Select Post Type #

  1. Open the Block Settings Sidebar.
  2. Under Select Post Type, choose the post type you want to display:

Show Featured Images #

  • Enable Show Featured Image to display thumbnails for applicable content.

Meta Data Display #

  1. Scroll to the Metadata section.
  2. Enable Meta 1 and select the field to display.
  3. Click Add Meta to include up to four metadata fields total.

Note: A maximum of 4 metadata fields can be displayed.

Directory Options #

Toggle the following features to customize the display:

  • Show Search Bar – Adds a search input field.
  • Show Avatar – Displays the author’s avatar.
  • Show Search Filter – Adds filter functionality to the search bar.

Set Order Options #

  • Choose your preferred sorting from the Order By and Order dropdowns (e.g., date, title, ascending/descending).

Important Notes #

  • If you add the Directory Block to a page with other blocks, you will see this error:
    “Directory block cannot be placed on a screen with additional blocks.”
  • Adding any additional block to a screen already containing the Directory Block will trigger the same error.

Troubleshooting and FAQs #

Q: What happens if I add the Directory Block to a page with other blocks?
 A: You’ll receive an error: “Directory block cannot be placed on a screen with additional blocks.”

Q: Featured images aren’t appearing, what should I check?
 A: Confirm that Show Featured Image is enabled in the block settings.

Q: How can I add or change metadata fields?
 A: Enable Meta 1, then use Add Meta to include up to 4 fields.

Updated on April 22, 2026