WordPress editor plugins work by extending the functionality of the default WordPress editor, also known as the Gutenberg editor or block editor. The default editor provides a set of core blocks for creating content, such as paragraphs, headings, images, and lists. Editor plugins enhance this functionality by adding new blocks, modifying existing blocks, or providing additional options and features within the editor interface.

Here's an overview of how WordPress editor plugins typically work:

1. Integration: Editor plugins integrate with the WordPress core and the Gutenberg editor. They leverage the Gutenberg block system to add their own custom blocks or modify existing ones. The plugin registers its blocks and hooks into the editor's rendering process.

2. User Interface: Editor plugins provide a user interface within the WordPress admin area for configuring and managing the plugin's features. This interface may include settings, options, and customization controls specific to the plugin's functionality.

3. Custom Blocks: Editor plugins often introduce new blocks that offer specialized functionality. These blocks can be added to the editor like any other block, providing additional content elements or interactive components. For example, a plugin may introduce blocks for testimonials, sliders, pricing tables, contact forms, or social media feeds.

4. Block Extensions: Editor plugins can also extend the capabilities of existing blocks provided by WordPress or other plugins. They may add new customization options, styling controls, or advanced settings to the default blocks. This allows users to have more flexibility and control over the appearance and behavior of their content.

5. Backend Processing: When a user creates or updates content using the editor plugin, the plugin's code processes the data entered by the user. This may involve validating inputs, sanitizing data, and performing any necessary operations specific to the plugin's functionality.

6. Frontend Rendering: The content created or modified using the editor plugin is saved in the WordPress database and rendered on the frontend of the website. The plugin's code ensures that the custom blocks or modifications made by the user are properly rendered and displayed as intended on the live site.

It's important to note that the exact implementation and features of editor plugins can vary depending on the specific plugin. The WordPress plugin architecture provides a flexible framework for developers to extend and enhance the editor's capabilities according to their specific needs and requirements.