Enhancing Accessibility with Semantically Correct HTML
When it comes to building web pages, HTML plays a crucial role in defining the structure and organisation of content. Embracing semantically correct HTML is a powerful practice that not only enhances website accessibility but also boosts search engine optimisation and improves overall code readability. In this article, we’ll explore the concept of semantically correct HTML and provide you with a step-by-step example using “Lorem ipsum” text.
Semantics in HTML refers to the meaning and purpose of the elements used to structure a web page. Rather than relying solely on visual formatting, semantically correct HTML assigns meaning to the content, making it more understandable to both humans and machines.
Structuring
HTML5 Doctype and Document Structure
<!DOCTYPE html>
<html>
<head>
<title>My Blog Post</title>
</head>
<body>
<header>
<h1>Welcome to My Blog</h1>
<nav>
<ul>
<li><a href=”#”>Home</a></li>
<li><a href=”#”>About</a></li>
<li><a href=”#”>Contact</a></li>
</ul>
</nav>
</header>
<main>
<article>
<h2>My First Blog Post</h2>
<p>Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit…</p>
</article>
<article>
<h2>Another Exciting Post</h2>
<p>Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit…</p>
</article>
</main>
<aside>
<h3>About the Author</h3>
<p>Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit…</p>
</aside>
<footer>
<p>© 2023 My Blog. All rights reserved.</p>
</footer>
</body>
</html>
Head Section: Essential Elements
In the <head> section of your HTML document, you should include various essential elements to optimise your web page and improve user experience:
Meta Tags: Use meta tags to specify the character encoding, viewport settings for responsive design, and other important metadata.
CSS Links: Link your external CSS files to style the web page and ensure a consistent design.
Favicon: Add a favicon icon that appears in the browser tab to help users identify your website.
Title: Set the title of your web page, which appears in the browser’s title bar and search engine results.
By including these elements in the head section, you ensure proper rendering and enhance the overall performance and appearance of your web page.
Embracing semantically correct HTML empowers web developers to build websites that are accessible, SEO-friendly, and well-structured. By assigning meaning to each element, you create a more meaningful experience for both users and search engines, leading to improved website performance and user satisfaction. So, dive into the world of semantically correct HTML and take your web development skills to new heights!