Learn HTML with online courses, classes, and lessons

HTML is the basis for web pages. And while coding and programming languages vary, understanding HTML is essential for a front-end developer. Take HTML courses online to learn the skills front-end developers need.

What is HTML?

HTML is short for HyperText Markup Language and is the foundation of what exists on the web.^{Footnote 1} Its creation resulted in the computer coding and programming that produces what users typically see and interact with online.^{Footnote 2} That user-facing part of a website such as the design, images, dropdown menus, and pop-up chats involves front-end development. Front-end developers^{Footnote 3} typically learn HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.^{Footnote 4}

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HTML course curriculum

Opportunities to learn HTML are available online. An HTML tutorial that covers coding essentials and best practices can take a number of weeks. A typical HTML course includes lessons on using HTML tags to build pages for websites, markup language, web design, and style. Taking a free HTML course for beginners can expose learners to the field so they can determine whether it’s a good fit as well as gauge their chances for career advancement. Completing an online HTML class or earning an HTML certificate allows learners of all levels to expand their knowledge and front-end developer skills.

HTML and front-end developer jobs

Expertise in HTML may lead to HTML programmer and front-end developer jobs. Some employers prefer to hire a front-end developer candidate who has a bachelor’s degree in related fields such as computer science or programming, web design, digital design, or graphic arts. Front-end developers with master’s degrees and relevant work experience can advance to become project managers.^{Footnote 5} Professionals in the field can enroll in boot camps to keep up with the latest HTML training that includes updates in software and technology.

HTML and front-end developer careers include titles such as:^{Footnote 6}

Digital designer
Technology applications engineer
Web architect
Web design specialist
Web designer
Web developer
Webmaster

How to become a front-end developer

A front-end developer typically has knowledge about computers and electronic devices and possesses skills in programming, critical thinking, reading comprehension, solving problems, active learning, active listening, and making decisions. Learning HTML, CSS, and JavaScript can help build front-end developer skills. While not required, both a bachelor’s program in computer science or a data science master’s degree can teach aspiring professionals the skills needed for the job. Job candidates and employees seeking promotions can stand out if their previous work experience or projects can demonstrate their abilities.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to learn HTML?

The length of time it takes to learn HTML can vary, but an HTML course online that covers the basics of coding can take a few weeks. Completing multiple front-end development courses as part of a certificate program can take about seven months.

Is HTML hard to learn?

Learning HTML, CSS, and JavaScript can be like learning a new language.^{Footnote 7} Different people have different capacities to learn programming languages. Varying rules of usage and syntax apply, but people with an aptitude for understanding different languages may have an advantage when learning to code as well as those with a computer science or engineering background.

How do HTML, CSS, and JavaScript work together?

Experts with front-end developer skills typically know HTML, CSS, and JavaScript because they are the programming languages used to create the part of the website that online users see and interact with.^{Footnote 8} These programming languages work with each other for a website to be operational. HTML is what enables the structure or format of items such as paragraphs or headlines on a web page. CSS addresses the general appearance or design of the website. JavaScript is the actual action or programming that operates on a web page. It does sorting, calculations, etc. Together they format, design, and program web pages.^{Footnote 9}

Should I learn HTML before JavaScript?

HTML is the tool that creates a web page. Because JavaScript is used on the various interfaces and actions that can be executed from a web page, it can be beneficial to first learn HTML, but there is no set learning pathway for front-end development.

Why should I learn HTML?

Businesses and organizations can maintain a presence on the internet with websites. To build websites, organizations require experts in front-end development. Those developers might be in-house or contract hires.

Do I need any tools or software to learn HTML?

Three tools are recommended. A simple text editor such as Notepad or TextEdit is needed to learn HTML. In addition, a web browser, such as Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Internet Explorer, is useful to test how a web page looks and performs. Finally, using one’s own computer instead of one in a library or lab can also be beneficial for learners who are serious about acquiring web development skills.^{Footnote 10}