Semantic HTML refers to using HTML elements that clearly describe their meaning and purpose.
Instead of using generic containers everywhere, semantic HTML helps define what each part of a webpage represents.
Why Semantic HTML Matters
Semantic elements help browsers, search engines, and assistive technologies understand the structure of a webpage.
They improve accessibility, SEO, readability, and long-term maintainability of code.
Examples of Semantic Meaning
Elements like header, footer, article, and nav clearly describe their role in a webpage.
When developers read semantic HTML, they can understand the layout without reading CSS or JavaScript.
The example above uses generic containers. It does not clearly describe the purpose of each section.
Search engines and screen readers cannot easily understand what this layout represents.
In this example:
- header represents the top section of the page
- nav represents the navigation menu
The purpose of each section is clear and meaningful.
Semantic HTML and Accessibility
Screen readers rely on semantic elements to navigate content efficiently.
Using semantic HTML allows users with disabilities to understand and navigate a webpage more easily.
Semantic HTML and SEO
Search engines use semantic elements to understand page structure and importance of content.
Proper semantic structure can improve search rankings and content visibility.
Why Semantic HTML Matters for Jobs
Most modern frameworks and companies expect developers to write semantic HTML.
Interviewers often test knowledge of semantic elements and page structure.
Practice Task
Review an HTML page you created earlier and identify where semantic elements can replace generic containers.
What You Will Learn Next
In the next lesson, you will learn the difference between semantic and non-semantic HTML elements.