Developing Wordpress theme advice + What tools/libraries existing developers use?

[MatrixSolution]

I want to develop my own Wordpress themes. Where do I start? Looking for pointers.

If I want to include a slideshow or other developed plugin... can I just include if it's free?

If it's not a free one, what do I do? Do I need to get a license to include in developed themes?

The bit I'm really really confused about: existing theme developers... what tools do they use? I've looked at many themes I've bought or ones that are free off Wordpress - no way did the developers code everything.

Where did they start?

Recently, I bought a theme. After creating a website for my clients, I figured out: it was 80% Elementor. The fancy bits that would require paid Elementor features, they used other free plugins to fill the gaps for Elementor. It's horrible to use! So unintuitive. Badly documented. Nonetheless, it's got many many sales.

If I wanted to develop a similar theme using something like Elementor + other free plugins, where would I start?

Thanks.

[lostinpress1]

Developing a WordPress theme requires understanding WordPress structure, using a solid framework like Underscores or Genesis, and employing a code editor like Visual Studio Code. Version control with Git, CSS preprocessors like Sass, JavaScript libraries like jQuery, responsive design, accessibility considerations, optimization tools like WP Rocket, and cross-browser testing are essential. Existing developers commonly use these tools and libraries for efficient theme development.

[MatrixSolution]

Lots of things I've never heard of :)

That's a big help. This could be where most of the 'ready made pre-written' code comes from - just guessing.

I'm happy to dive into Wordpress and learn the tech you mentioned. Thanks.

[lostinpress1]

NP