🔍 What is Semantic HTML?
Semantic HTML refers to using HTML5 elements that clearly describe their meaning and role in the content. Examples include <header>
, <article>
, <nav>
, <footer>
, and more.
♿ Improves Accessibility
Semantic tags help screen readers and assistive technologies understand the structure of a web page. For example, <main>
tells the browser where the core content starts, improving navigation for visually impaired users.
📈 Boosts SEO
Search engines like Google use semantic elements to better understand your page's content. Tags like <article>
and <section>
signal relevance, helping your pages rank higher in search results.
🧱 Cleaner, More Organized Code
Semantic HTML makes your code more readable and maintainable. Future developers (including you!) will appreciate the clarity of knowing what each section is supposed to do.
🔧 Common Semantic Tags
<header>
– for introductory content<nav>
– for navigation links<main>
– main content of the page<section>
– logical group of content<article>
– self-contained content like a blog post<footer>
– bottom of the page
🧠 Bonus Tip: Combine with ARIA When Needed
While semantic HTML covers most needs, use ARIA roles like role="button"
or aria-label
to enhance accessibility when custom components are used.
📌 Final Thoughts
Semantic HTML is more than just clean code — it's essential for creating inclusive, accessible websites and improving SEO. Start using proper tags today, and both users and search engines will thank you!