How to Use Shopify: Step-by-Step Guide for New Store Owners
If you're trying to figure out how to use Shopify, you’re in the right place. Shopify is one of the most powerful and beginner-friendly platforms for launching an online store—but like anything new, it helps to have a simple roadmap.
In this post, we’ll break down how to use Shopify from start to finish, so you can launch your store with confidence.
Step 1: Sign Up for a Shopify Account
Go to shopify.com and start your free trial. You’ll be asked to enter a few details about your business or idea. Don’t overthink this—you can change almost everything later.
Step 2: Choose a Theme
Once you’re inside your Shopify dashboard, you’ll choose a theme—this is the design template for your store. You can start with a free Shopify theme or explore premium options in the theme store.
Most themes are customizable, so you can adjust colors, fonts, layout, and images without touching code.
Step 3: Add Your Products
Go to the “Products” tab and start adding what you sell. You’ll need:
-
Product name
-
Description
-
Pricing
-
High-quality images
-
Variants (like size or color)
-
Inventory settings
Take time to write clear, benefit-driven product descriptions. This is what helps convert visitors into buyers.
Step 4: Set Up Payments
Click “Settings” > “Payments.” Shopify Payments is the easiest option—it lets you accept credit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Shop Pay.
You can also connect PayPal, Stripe, or other gateways depending on your location and preferences.
Step 5: Configure Shipping
Go to “Settings” > “Shipping and Delivery.” Set your shipping zones and rates. Shopify can calculate real-time rates with carriers like USPS, UPS, and Canada Post, or you can offer flat-rate and free shipping options.
Pro Tip: Offer free shipping over a certain amount to increase average order value.
Step 6: Customize Key Pages
You’ll want to edit key store pages like:
-
Homepage
-
About Us
-
Contact Us
-
FAQ
-
Policies (Shopify can generate these for you)
These help build trust and make your store feel complete.
Step 7: Connect Your Domain
You can buy a custom domain right inside Shopify, or connect one you already own. This gives your store a professional, branded look (like www.yourstore.com instead of yourstore.myshopify.com).
Step 8: Set Up Tracking & Analytics
Install the free Shopify Analytics, enable Google Analytics, and add the Meta Pixel if you plan to run ads. These tools help you track traffic, conversions, and customer behavior from day one.
Step 9: Preview and Test Your Store
Before you go live, test everything:
-
Mobile and desktop layout
-
Product links and buttons
-
Checkout flow
-
Email notifications
Get feedback from a friend or colleague too—they’ll catch things you might miss.
Step 10: Launch Your Store!
When you’re ready, remove the password protection and go live! From here, you can:
-
Promote your store on social media
-
Start email marketing with Klaviyo or Shopify Email
-
Run Meta or Google Ads
-
Launch influencer campaigns
Final Thoughts
If you’re wondering how to use Shopify, the process is easier than you think. From signing up to launching your store, Shopify gives you everything in one place.
You don’t need to know code. You don’t need to hire a massive team. You just need the right steps and the right support—and that’s where we come in.
Need help launching or optimizing your Shopify store? Book a free strategy call with our team today.