Chapter 2. Preparing for Website Coding
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Starting your journey in website coding requires setting up essential tools and understanding the fundamental structure of web files. This chapter introduces the necessary tools, such as Visual Studio Code and web browsers, and provides guidance on organizing and handling website files effectively. Whether you are new to coding or looking to refine your setup, this chapter will help you establish a solid foundation for website development.
What We Cover in This Chapter
The following topics are covered in this chapter:
Two Key Tools to Start Coding Websites
This section explains the two essential tools needed to begin website coding: a text editor and a web browser. You will learn about Visual Studio Code (VS Code) as the preferred text editor and how to use web browsers to preview and debug your code effectively.
How Browsers Display Web Pages
Understanding how browsers process and render web pages is crucial. This section covers the order in which browsers interpret HTML, CSS, and JavaScript files and explains how external resources like images and stylesheets are managed.
File Name Rules
Proper file naming conventions help maintain a structured and error-free development environment. You will learn best practices for naming files, including allowed characters, case sensitivity, and common pitfalls to avoid.
Website Directory Structure
Organizing files efficiently is key to managing website projects. This section explains how to structure website directories by separating HTML, CSS, and image files into logical folders, ensuring clarity and maintainability.
Absolute Path vs. Relative Path
Understanding file paths is fundamental in website development. This section explains the difference between absolute and relative paths, when to use each, and how to reference resources correctly to avoid broken links.
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