HTML Level 1 and 2 Manual

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Page Layout Techniques

Layout before CSS, tables and frames

The honest HTML 2 layout model

• HTML 1 and 2 are document languages. They give headings, paragraphs, lists, rules, addresses, preformatted blocks and images. They do not give CSS layout, frames, floating boxes or standard tables.
• The best layout for these pages is a well-organised document: title, rule, navigation list, main heading, content sections, footer address.

Navigation without tables

• Use a line of A links separated by plain characters for a compact header.
• Use MENU or UL for a vertical site menu. MENU is a compact choice; UL is the common structural choice.
• Repeat a small navigation block at the bottom of long pages.

Spacing and alignment

• Use headings and HR for section breaks. Use P for paragraphs. Use BR only for genuine line breaks.
• Use PRE for diagrams and fixed-width examples, but keep it narrow.
• Do not build a page by stacking empty paragraphs. It will vary wildly between browsers.

Keep to the basics

• Use the elements described in this manual.

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