Chapter 1 — Introduction to Web Development

Learning Outcome

Understand the role of HTML in web development and how websites work.

Next → 02 - Document Structure & Syntax

1.1 What is HTML?

HTML stands for HyperText Markup Language.

• It is the standard language used to create and structure content on the web.
• HTML is not a programming language — it is a markup language.
• It tells the browser how to display content using a system of elements represented by tags.

From W3Schools

"HTML is the standard markup language for creating Web pages."

1.2 HTML vs CSS vs JavaScript

The three core technologies of the web each play a distinct role:

Key Insight

You can build a webpage with HTML alone. CSS and JS enhance it — but HTML is the foundation every single time.

1.3 How Websites Work

When you type a URL in the browser, this happens:

1. Your browser sends an HTTP request to a web server.
2. The server sends back an HTML file.
3. The browser parses (reads) the HTML and renders the page.
4. CSS and JS files linked in the HTML are then fetched and applied.

User → types URL → Browser → HTTP Request → Web Server
Web Server → HTML file → Browser → Renders page → User sees it

HTTP vs HTTPS

HTTPS is the secure version of HTTP. The "S" means the connection is encrypted. Always use HTTPS for real websites.

1.4 Types of Websites

Recommended Projects

Project 1 — "About Me" Static Page

Create a simple page with your name, a short bio, and a fun fact. Rules: No CSS. Pure HTML only. Practice structure, not style.

Project 2 — Web Tech Comparison Sheet

Build a 2-column HTML page showing HTML vs CSS vs JS responsibilities. Use only headings and paragraphs. No tables yet.

📌 Quick Recall

• HTML = HyperText Markup Language
• HTML → Structure | CSS → Style | JS → Behaviour
• Browser sends HTTP request → Server returns HTML → Browser renders it
• HTML is a markup language, not a programming language

Next → 02 - Document Structure & Syntax