What is HTML?
HTML, or HyperText Markup Language, is the standard markup language used to create web pages. It provides the basic structure for a website, allowing developers to organize content and create a layout. HTML uses a system of elements, which are represented by tags, to define different pieces of content and how they should be displayed in a web browser.
The Structure of an HTML Document
All HTML documents follow a basic structure that includes several key components:
1. Document Type Declaration
The document type declaration, or , is the very first line of an HTML document. It informs the web browser about the version of HTML being used. For example:
<!DOCTYPE html>
2. The HTML Element
The tag wraps all the content on the page and indicates that the document is an HTML document. It is the root element of the HTML page:
<html>
<!-- Content goes here -->
</html>
3. Head Section
The
section contains meta-information about the document, such as its title, character set, and links to stylesheets or scripts. The title of the web page is defined within the<head>
<title>My First Web Page</title>
</head>
4. Body Section
The
<body>
<h1>Welcome to My Web Page</h1>
<p>This is a paragraph of text on my first web page.</p>
</body>
Common HTML Elements
There are many HTML elements, but some of the most commonly used ones include:
1. Headings
Headings are defined using the
to
tags, with
being the largest and
the smallest. They are used to create a hierarchy of information:
<h1>Main Title</h1>
<h2>Subheading</h2>
2. Paragraphs
being the largest and
the smallest. They are used to create a hierarchy of information:
<h1>Main Title</h1>
<h2>Subheading</h2>
2. Paragraphs
<h1>Main Title</h1>
<h2>Subheading</h2>
2. Paragraphs
Paragraphs are defined using the
tag, which is used to create blocks of text:
<p>This is a paragraph.</p>
3. Links
Links are created using the tag, which allows users to navigate to other web pages:
<a href="https://www.example.com">Visit Example</a>
4. Images
Images are embedded in web pages using the tag. The source of the image is specified using the src attribute:
<img src="image.jpg" alt="Description of image">
Conclusion
HTML is the backbone of web development. It provides the structure and meaning behind the content we see on the internet. By understanding the basic components and elements of HTML, you can begin creating your own web pages and exploring the world of web development.
