HTML Basics

HTML stands for Hyper Text Markup Language. HTML is nothing more than a variety of commands that have to be inserted into your text in order to provide the basic formatting instructions to the "browser" that is reading the HTML file. HTML also provides codes to insert graphic files into the text with instructions on how the graphics will interact with the surrounding text. Additionally, and most importantly, HTML makes it possible to link text or graphics to other HTML files. If you've spent time surfing the net, you've already realized the power of this linking ability.

While it is possible to write the entire instructions for a home page in a basic text editor, there are a number of HTML editors available that make the job a whole lot easier. However, it has been my experience that unless you intend to keep your home page very simple, it's mandatory to acquire some basic knowledge regarding the HTML protocol. You also need to become familiar with the differences between HTML 2.0 and 3.2 (two previously accepted standards), and HTML4.0 (the most recently approved standard) and (just to further complicate matters) Netscape's and Microsoft's Explorer enhancements to HTML.

Netscape and Microsoft Explorer, the industry's two leading browser, are constantly pushing the envelope of HTML with regular enhancements that are unique to their browsers. This has caused some controversy among those wanting to see strict standards for accepted HTML protocol. However, because of their large share of the browser market, you will see a number of Web sites specifically designed to take advantage of either Netscape or Explorer enhancements. This is not recommended as you could seriously restrict how your site will appear to those using a browser that does not recognize these enhancements.

The necessity of understanding the differences in HTML 2.0, 3.2, 4.0, Netscape and Microsoft enhancements are important in design considerations. For instance, tables which are created using the HTML 3.2 can turn into a jumbled mess when viewed by an old browser that does not support them. It is also important to understand that the manner in which your browser displays certain HTML codes may be different than another browser viewing the same codes. Never assume that how you see a page displayed on your browser is the same visual appearance being displayed by someone else viewing the same page on another browser. Fortunately, the last several versions of Netscape, Microsoft Explorer, and the built-in browsers of the more popular online services (AOL, Prodigy, etc.) support the use of tables and frames, two of the more popular HTML features.

If you want to insure that your pages can be seen by the largest possible audience it's best to stay within the limits of HTML 2.0. Virtually all browsers will fully support the 2.0 protocol. However, for all practical purposes, it is relatively safe to fully utilize the HTML 3.2 guideline as most modern browsers, most notably Netscape and Microsoft Explorer fully support the 3.2 protocol.

The best way to check your HTML syntax for possible coding errors is the have your pages checked by a validation service. Check out Weblint. I guarantee that besides finding errors that can cause problems, you'll learn a lot about proper HTML coding trying to get your page(s) to pass through error-free. Another equally good service is provided by W3C HTML Validation Service. Both of these services have easy to use instructions, are free of charge, and will improve the quality and accuracy of your HTML coding.

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Last Edited on April 24, 1998