Introduction to HTML and Web Design

Introduction to HTML

• HTML stands for HyperText Markup Language, used to create and design web pages.

• Unlike programming languages, HTML is a markup language focused on the structure and layout of information.

• A web page is a document viewed with a web browser and can include text, images, videos, and links to other web pages.

Objectives for Web Design

• Understanding reasons for creating a website.

• Choosing suitable designs for the web pages.

• Techniques for inserting and deleting content (text and graphics).

• Creating hyperlinks to connect different web pages.

• Key considerations for publishing websites.

• Note: No HTML coding required for exams.

Planning and Purpose

• Purpose of a Website: Identify why the website is being created (to inform, entertain, or teach).

  • This purpose will guide the content and layout decisions.

• Common Website Types:

  • Entertainment: YouTube and Netflix.

  • Corporate and Informational: .org, oup.com.

  • E-commerce: Amazon, eBay.

  • Social Media: Facebook, Instagram.

Content & Layout

• Aim for engaging content that is not cluttered yet informative.

• Use images and videos to enhance the web page.

• Organizing content with clear sections and subcategories can aid navigation.

Page Organization Best Practices

• Effective layouts include logos, navigation menus, headers, content areas, copyright notices, search boxes, etc.

• Consider sketching the layout before implementing it to visualize placement and organization.

Creating Web Pages

• Design Choices: Choose inviting designs that align with the website’s purpose.

  • Use themes, color schemes, and fonts appropriately across pages.

  • Add backgrounds and images to create a professional or playful look.

• Inserting Media:

  • Use website builders to insert or delete images/text easily.

  • Utilize text wrapping techniques to manipulate text around images.

Inserting Hyperlinks

• Hyperlinks enhance the structure of a website, facilitating easy navigation.

• Types of hyperlinks include:

  • Links to other web pages.

  • Links within the same page (bookmarks).

  • Links to email addresses to create new messages.

  • Links to documents/files created by users.

Evaluating a Website

• Criteria for Evaluation:

  • Ensure all hyperlinks function properly.

  • Conduct user testing to gather feedback on content and usability.

  • Keep website content updated and accurate.

• Pre-Publishing Considerations:

  • Align design elements (headings, images, fonts) with the website’s purpose.

  • Ensure readability (font size, text contrast).

  • Preview the website to check aesthetics and function.

Conclusion

• Students should grasp basic HTML concepts, how to create and manage web pages, the use of hyperlinks, and the evaluation process before launching a website. This knowledge will enhance their ability to design effective and user-friendly web environments.