Introduction
Welcome to the world of web development! If you’re here, it means you’re ready to embark on an exciting journey into the realm of HTML. I’m Harry, your guide for this adventure, and together, we’ll unravel the mysteries of HTML in a fun and engaging way. Before we dive in, let’s set some expectations based on your educational background.
Recommended Timeline
- High School students and younger: Around 25 days
- Beyond High School: Around 20 days
- College students and above: Around 10-20 days
Why set these timelines?
It’s essential to have a roadmap as you start your HTML journey to make the learning process more manageable and enjoyable. So, without further ado, let’s jump right into HTML!
Understanding HTML
HTML, or HyperText Markup Language, is the foundation of the web. Created by Tim Berners-Lee in 1991, HTML serves as a markup language used to structure content on the web. Think of it as the skeleton of a website, providing instructions to web browsers on how to display text, images, links, and more.
HTML in Action
HTML is like a set of building blocks that create the structure and look of a website. It consists of tags enclosed in angle braces (< >), each with a unique meaning and significance. These tags define elements like headings, paragraphs, lists, images, and links, shaping the layout of web pages.
Key Features of HTML
- Platform-independent: Web pages created with HTML display identically across different browsers and operating systems.
- Multimedia integration: HTML allows the inclusion of images, videos, and audio to enhance web content.
- Markup language: Unlike programming languages, HTML focuses on structuring content rather than executing commands.
- Integration with CSS and JavaScript: HTML can be combined with CSS for styling and JavaScript for interactivity.
Why “HyperText Markup Language (HTML)”?
The term ‘Hypertext Markup Language’ signifies the linking of text with other documents (hypertext) using special tags (markup language). Tags, enclosed in angle braces, carry specific meanings and influence the appearance and functionality of web pages.
Quick Exercise
To understand HTML better, right-click on any webpage, select ‘View Page Source,’ and explore the HTML code. This code represents the instructions sent by the server to display the page you’re viewing.
Analogizing HTML, CSS, and JavaScript: Imagine building a webpage as assembling a car. HTML acts as the skeleton, CSS adds paint and design, while JavaScript provides the engine and interactive features, making the webpage functional and appealing.
History of HTML
HTML’s journey began in 1989 when Tim Berners-Lee created the World Wide Web (www) and developed the first version of HTML in 1991. Since then, HTML has evolved through various versions, with HTML5 being the latest and most stable version used today.