Proper organization of content on a web page is not only crucial for a good user experience, but also for the development of coherent and accessible sites. In HTML, two of the most versatile and common tags that serve this purpose are <div> y . Let's see how and when to use each of them to structure the content of your website effectively.
What is the label <div>?
The label <div> It should be used as a generic container for streaming content that does not have a more appropriate semantic meaning to use. That is, when you cannot describe the contents of the container with a more specific label such as , , , either , <div> is your best option.
Its use is essential to group elements in order to apply CSS styles or perform manipulations through JavaScript.
Basic example of <div>
<div id="navegacion-principal">
<!-- Contenido de la navegación principal -->
</div>
<div class="modulo-informativo">
<!-- Contenido de un módulo informativo -->
</div>In this example, we have used <div> to create two different blocks on the page: one for the main navigation and another for an information module. It allows us, for example, to assign unique styles to each block with the use of id y class.
How is it related
Unlike <div>, the label It has a more concrete meaning within the HTML language. It is used to represent a section of the document that groups together thematically related content, usually accompanied by a heading.
It is recommended to use rather <div> when the content group represents a significant part of the document structure, such as chapters, subsections, or self-contained modules.
An example of use of
<section id="acerca-de">
<h2>About us</h2>
<p>We are a company dedicated to...</p>
</section>
<section id="servicios">
<h2>Our services</h2>
<!-- Más contenido relacionado con los servicios ofrecidos -->
</section>In this case, each represents a distinct and significant area of the website, marked by its own header, making it easy to identify and structure for both users and search engines.
Considerations for Accessibility and SEO
Correct semantic structuring not only improves the readability of your website for users, but is also essential for SEO and accessibility. Search engines and screen readers use these semantic markers to understand the structure and hierarchy of content.
Therefore, the applicability of <div> y It should be based on their suitability for the content they contain, always prioritizing the use of semantic elements when possible.
Practical cases and tips
-
To create a "sidebar" or "sidebar" on your blog or online store, consider using the tag
before a<div>, since it has semantic meaning as tangential content to the main one. -
Do you need a container without specific semantics to apply styles or add functionality with JavaScript? Turn to
<div>as your 'wildcard tool'. -
If you are segmenting your article or blog post into well-defined sections that could exist autonomously, then use
. Each of these sections should be accompanied by its corresponding heading.
Don't forget to visit nelkodev.com for more tips on web development and feel free to contact contact if you have specific questions or need advice with your project.
HTML is a constantly evolving language, and clarity in its use will not only make your job as a developer easier, but will provide better access and understanding of the content to your users. Give your HTML elements appropriate use and you will see how both the structure and presentation of your page will improve significantly.
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