HTML tables support several attributes that help control layout and improve readability.
While modern table styling is done using CSS, understanding basic table attributes is important for learning and legacy systems.
The border Attribute
The border attribute is used to display borders around table cells. It is mainly used for learning and demonstration purposes.
The cellpadding and cellspacing Attributes
The cellpadding attribute controls the space inside table cells.
The cellspacing attribute controls the space between table cells.
Table Width and Alignment
The width attribute is used to control the width of a table or column.
Alignment attributes were used earlier, but modern layouts use CSS instead.
Accessibility Best Practices for Tables
- Always use <th> for headers
- Keep table structure consistent
- Use meaningful header names
- Avoid complex nested tables
Avoid Using Tables for Layout
Tables should only be used for tabular data.
Using tables for page layout is outdated and creates accessibility and maintenance issues.
Professional Table Design Tips
- Keep tables simple and readable
- Avoid overcrowding with too much data
- Use CSS later for styling and responsiveness
Why Table Best Practices Matter for Jobs
Admin panels, dashboards, and reports rely on well-structured tables.
Employers expect developers to understand clean data presentation and accessibility standards.
Practice Task
Create a table showing employee details with proper headers. Add border, cell padding, and spacing for clarity.
What You Will Learn Next
In the next lesson, you will be introduced to HTML forms and how users submit data on websites.