Web Do's & Don'ts » HTML

Don’t use empty image src

Siniša — Mon, 30 Aug 2010 18:18:20 +0000

An HTML image, either via tag or JavaScript Image object, that has its src set to an empty string can cause traffic spikes or user state corruption.

Specify HTML document’s language

Bojan — Mon, 19 Apr 2010 10:21:22 +0000

Use the language attribute(s) on the html tag to indicate the language of a HTML document, unless the content is aimed at speakers of more than one language.

Always provide an alt text in img elements

Bojan — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 09:24:11 +0000

The alt attribute is a textual replacement for the image which is not being displayed. It must always be used, even if the image in question is purely decorative–in that case, the alt attribute should be an empty string.

Use tables in HTML email

Bojan — Fri, 08 Jan 2010 08:59:28 +0000

Tables are inappropriate for layout, but a necessary evil in HTML e-mail. Mail clients have bad CSS support which means we must use tables when coding newsletters to ensure consistent display across clients.

Don’t be skipping heading levels

Siniša — Sat, 26 Dec 2009 12:55:53 +0000

One of the benefits of a proper and consistent heading structure in an HTML page is that they can be repurposed to improve access to the content. Also keep in mind that skipping a heading level makes navigating by headers less usable for screenreader users.

Use the title attribute on form elements

Siniša — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 18:43:58 +0000

The title attribute offers an extra avenue for associating text to a form field. It should not be used as the first means of associating a label text with a corresponding form field. In situations where supplementary information is useful, the title attribute is helpful.

Use the optgroup element for hierarchical select options

Bojan — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 11:38:39 +0000

Grouping of options in HTML select element should be achieved using optgroup element in combination with label attribute.

Don’t use empty HTML elements

Bojan — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 11:27:07 +0000

You should avoid inappropriate HTML use such as putting empty elements just for float clearing.

Group form controls by using fieldset and legend elements

Siniša — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 08:16:22 +0000

The grouping and labeling of thematically related controls within a form is an important aspect of providing semantic information so users can understand and complete a form successfully.

Consider using Diagnostic styling

Siniša — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 09:06:13 +0000

Using Diagnostic Styling can help you reveal specific problems within an HTML document.