2 . Web Design Tips
Simpler is better. It is easier to read and follow, creates less possible problems and loads faster.
Keep the background white until you're more sure of yourself. It's neat, clean, and you don't have to worry about your graphics blending into the background.
Forget graphic backgrounds. They usually make pages very hard or impossible to read.
Use type graphics for headlines.
Don't let your type run the full length of the page. Long line lengths are hard to read (that's why newspapers and other printed publications have small columns.) Use the BLOCKQUOTE tag or TABLES to alleviate this.
Avoid paragraphs of center aligned text; again, hard to read.
Don't "abuse" bold, italic, or other stylized text in HTML.
Use shape, color and contrast to motivate the viewer to surf deeper into your pages.
Use graphics as bullets, but only when appropriate and not too big.
The home page should be a welcome and introduction page for a general audience. Don't try to say everything on one page.
Use original content whenever possible or use interesting clip art (there's alot to choose from!)
Remember: typeface is controlled by the viewer - unless you lock-in your type design with graphics and image maps.
Use optimized, fast-loading graphics and photos:
- Graphic resolution is 72 dpi.
- Graphic formats for Web pages are GIF or JPEG.
GIF for "solid" or limited color graphics.
JPEG for "full-color" photographic images.Use navigational tool bars or icons. Make them an appropriate size and keep them in the same place on every page. Use them to lead your viewer where you want them to go next. Also, provide a way back to a previous page or section.
Use "ALT" text and text links for viewers that choose not to load images.
Keep pages short if possible. Break longer pages up into multiple linked pages with logical breaks.
Each page should include contact information, a link to the home page, name and logo, site navigation aids, the date the site was last updated, and copyright information.
Now, on to. . . 3. Advanced Techniques
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