Semantics
HTML Section
Organizing Content Sections
HTML section groups related content, often with headings.
Introduction to the <section> Tag
The <section> tag in HTML is a semantic element used to group related content. It often includes headings, making it easier for search engines and developers to understand the structure of a webpage. Unlike the <div> element, which is primarily used for styling purposes, the <section> tag indicates a thematic grouping of content.
When to Use the <section> Tag
The <section> element should be used when the content within it forms a distinct part of the document that could stand alone as a separate section. For example, use <section> for different segments of a blog post, such as an introduction, body, and conclusion.
It's important to differentiate between <section> and <article>. While <article> is used for self-contained content that can be reused elsewhere, <section> is used for grouping related content within a single page.
Basic Structure of a <section>
Accessibility and SEO Benefits
Using the <section> tag appropriately improves accessibility for screen readers, as it helps them understand the document's structure. It also enhances SEO by making the webpage's content more organized and easier for search engines to index.
Styling <section> with CSS
While the <section> element provides semantic meaning, you can style it using CSS like any other HTML element. Assign classes or IDs to <section> tags for targeted styling.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is using the <section> tag for purely stylistic purposes, which should be done with <div> instead. Ensure that the <section> tag is used for meaningful content grouping.