Blocks can be placed in the left or right column of a specific page by making a layout update to the XML code. With a few simple changes to the code, you can position the block in either column, and control its position in relation to other blocks.

As you work with the underlying code, you will encounter slightly different terminology. For example, the term calloutSometimes used to describe an XML block of page layout code. is sometimes used to refer to a block that is defined as a layout update with XML code. The term sidebarThe right or left column of a two-column page layout. refers to the left or right columns of the page layout. For our general discussion, we use the terms block and column. However, when entering layout update code, make sure to follow the syntax exactly as shown in the example.

To place a block in a side column:

1.

On the Admin menu, select CMS > Pages > Manage Content.

2.

Click to open the CMS page. Then, in the panel on the left, select Design.

3.

In the Layout Update XML box, enter the code for the right or left sidebar, as shown in example. Then, do the following:

a.

Change the reference name to identify either the “right” or “left” column.

b.

Change the block_id to the identifier of the block to be placed.

• Code for CMS Block in Side Column

  <reference name="right"> <block type="cms/block" name="right.permanent.callout"> <action method="setBlockId"><block_id>your-block-id</block_id></action> </block> </reference>

4.

When complete, click the Save Page button.