What is HTML?
HTML, or HyperText Markup Language, is the standard markup language used to create web pages. It serves as the backbone of almost all web content, allowing developers to structure documents and format text, images, and other media for display in web browsers.
Core Concepts of HTML
Elements
HTML consists of various elements that are defined using tags. An HTML element typically includes a start tag, content, and an end tag. For example, the <p> tag is used to define a paragraph.
Attributes
Attributes provide additional information about HTML elements. They are always specified in the opening tag and can control functionality, appearance, and behavior. For example, the src attribute in an <img> tag defines the path to the image file.
Basic HTML Structure
A simple HTML document begins with a <!DOCTYPE html> declaration followed by the <html> root element. Inside it, you will find the <head> and <body> sections.
Example of Basic HTML Structure
<!DOCTYPE html>
<html lang="en">
<head>
<meta charset="UTF-8">
<meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1.0">
<title>My First Web Page</title>
</head>
<body>
<h1>Welcome to My Web Page</h1>
<p>This is a simple HTML document.</p>
</body>
</html>
HTML Tags
Common HTML Tags
There are numerous HTML tags that serve a variety of purposes. Here are some commonly used ones:
<a>– Defines hyperlinks<div>– Used to group content<span>– Inline container for text<table>– Defines a table
Semantic HTML
Semantic HTML refers to using HTML markup that conveys meaning about the web content. This practice enhances accessibility and SEO. Elements like <header>, <footer>, and <article> are examples of semantic elements.
Conclusion
HTML is an essential skill for anyone looking to develop websites or applications. Understanding its structure, elements, and best practices enables developers to create web pages that are not only functional but also user-friendly and accessible. As the foundation of web development, mastering HTML is the first step toward building engaging and effective online experiences.
