How CSS Works with HTML


HTML and CSS work together to create modern websites.

HTML builds the structure.

CSS controls the design.

Understanding the Relationship

Think of HTML as the skeleton of a body.

CSS is the clothes and appearance.

What Happens in the Browser

When a browser loads a page:

1. It reads the HTML first.
2. Then it applies CSS styles.
3. Finally, it displays the styled page.

Why CSS Is Separate from HTML

Separating design from structure:

  • Keeps code clean
  • Makes changes easier
  • Helps teamwork

This HTML creates content but has no styling.

CSS changes how the same HTML looks.

How CSS Finds HTML Elements

CSS uses selectors to choose which HTML elements to style.

Simple Example

The selector h1 means:

Style all heading elements.

Why This Matters for Jobs

Understanding how CSS works with HTML is a core frontend skill.

Every web project uses this relationship.

Common Beginner Mistakes

  • Mixing too much CSS inside HTML
  • Forgetting to connect CSS files
  • Writing styles but not seeing changes

Practice Task

Create a small HTML page and:

  •  Add one heading
  • Add one paragraph

Then imagine how you would style them with CSS.

What You Will Learn Next

In the next lesson, you will learn CSS syntax: selectors, properties, and values.