HTML Basics: Introduction to HTML

Average Rating: 3.2/5 | Rate this item | 126 users have rated this item.

HTML Basics: Introduction to HTML (cont'd)

HTML Tools
To create an HTML file, you don't need any special programs. All you need is a simple text editor that saves the file as ascii text.

For example, we use BBEdit on the Macintosh and HomeSite on the PC. Other people use word processors such as Word or Word Perfect that can save the files as ascii text. Others just use the built-in text editors that came with the computer—SimpleText or Notepad.

There are also a number of HTML WYSIWYG editors. These editors let you see the page as it will appear in a browser. Instead of typing tags, you can select commands from pull down menus, and click and drag items. Adobe, Microsoft, Macromedia and a score of other companies are all offering HTML creation tools.

No matter which tool you use, it is helpful to understand the HTML code itself. Understanding a little simple code makes it easier to fix problems on your page and simply understand why certain things are happening.

Definitions
WYSIWYG	is an acronym for What You See is What You Get.

View the Source
One of the most important—and too-often overlooked—steps in learning about HTML is using a feature in your browser called "View Source."

The source file is the HTML ascii text file that the browser is displaying. In all major browser you always have the option to "view source." This provides you with one of the most valuable learning tools there is—the ability to see a page you like and then see how it is built.

In both Netscape Navigator and Microsoft IE, view source is an option under the VIEW menu. Just click in the browser window to be sure the page is active, then click on the VIEW menu and select "view page" "view source", "source" or "view frame" from the options. The exact options you see will vary depending on which version of which browser you are using.

Don't be shy about viewing the source. There's nothing like learning from example.

Previous Page: HTML Files

Page 1: What is HTML?	Page 3: HTML Files
Page 2: How Does HTML Work?	Page 4: HTML Tools