Random Posts for Query Loop Block

Random Posts for Query Loop Block

Details
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The Query Loop block in WordPress does not include a “Random” ordering option in the sidebar UI.
However, WordPress core does support orderby = rand in WP_Query.

The problem:
Using "orderBy": "rand" inside a Query Loop block can cause the Site Editor preview to fail, because rand is not included in the REST API schema for posts.

This plugin fixes that by extending the REST API orderby enum so the editor recognizes "rand" as valid.

✔ What this plugin does

  • Adds "rand" to the REST API orderby enum for posts and pages.
  • Allows the Query Loop block to use "orderBy": "rand" safely.
  • Prevents JSON errors and broken previews in the Site Editor.
  • Makes “random post” layouts work reliably both in the editor and frontend.

⚠ What this plugin does not do

  • It does not add a “Random” option to the Query Loop UI dropdown.
    (That UI is defined in Gutenberg’s JavaScript.)
  • You must still set "orderBy": "rand" manually using the Code Editor.

Example use case

Want your homepage, blog, quotes site, testimonials, or featured-section to show
a different post every time the page loads?

Install this plugin open the template switch to Code Editor set "orderBy": "rand".

Details

Plugin code:
random-posts-for-query-loop-block
Plugin version:
1.0.5
Outdated:
No
WP version:
6.0 or higher
PHP version:
7.4 or higher
Test up to WP version:
6.9
Total installations:
0
Last updated:
2026-01-07
Rating:
Times rated:
0
block-editor
gutenberg
orderby
query-loop
random