DISSECT OTHER SITES.

The best way to learn how to do any sort of programming is to look at how other people do it. The internet is full of examples of HTML code; that's what a web page is. You cannot view a web page on your computer until the HTML that makes up that page has been loaded onto it. Most browsers will allow you to look at the HTML code for that page and even save it onto your hard drive. As long as you do not include other people's content or graphics in your own site, most people don't mind if you borrow their HTML code.

Take a look at other web sites. Which ones appeal to you? Which ones are easy to navigate? Which ones have a layout that is easy to read? Plan your design so that it includes the features you like in other people's sites. Avoid the features you don't like.

When you find a layout you like, take a look at the HTML code for that page. How was the page coded? Most features of HTML are not very difficult to learn, but don't steal code that you don't understand. You will have a lot of trouble working with it.

Remember, complex code does not necessarily make a better site. A good site is one that downloads quickly, is pleasing to the eye, communicates effectively, is well organized and is easy to navigate.