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Website explainer · 1:47

HTML Explained: The Structure Behind Your Website

What gives a web page its structure? HTML marks up headings, text, links and other content.

Jersey Web video: What is HTML for?

1:47 · No narration: the video shows each step as text on screen, and every step is written out below, with buttons that jump the video to it.

Download the on-screen text track (VTT)

The six points in the video

This is a silent video. The headings, explanations and labels below reproduce the information on screen.

  1. Step 1: HTML describes the content

    HyperText Markup Language identifies the parts of a page.

    On-screen labels: Headings; Paragraphs; Links and images.

  2. Step 2: Elements give things meaning

    A real heading or button communicates its purpose.

    On-screen labels: Heading element; Button element; Meaningful structure.

  3. Step 3: Links connect destinations

    Addresses let people move between pages and resources.

    On-screen labels: Link text; Destination address; Related information.

  4. Step 4: Forms collect information

    Labels and suitable controls help people enter the right details.

    On-screen labels: Visible labels; Input controls; Clear instructions.

  5. Step 5: Styling is handled separately

    CSS can change the look while HTML describes the structure.

    On-screen labels: Content structure; Visual styling; Working together.

  6. Step 6: Review structure as well as looks

    Useful headings and controls help people navigate the page.

    On-screen labels: Logical headings; Recognisable controls; Clear reading order.

A practical check for your business

Review the page structure with someone responsible for the website. Headings, links, form controls and other elements should represent the intended content and tasks, including when styles or scripts are unavailable.

Sources and further detail

Common questions

What gives a web page its structure?

HTML marks up headings, text, links and other content. Give the content a clear, meaningful structure.

Go further

Guide Read the practical guide More context for planning and maintaining your business website. 5 min read → Jargon Buster HTML explained Read the related Jargon Buster explanation. Read the explanation →

Give the content a clear, meaningful structure.

Tell Jersey Web what your website needs to do and which part you want help with.

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