Semantic Elements in HTML
Tags: html
Published: 2023-11-29 15:53:11

Semantics refers to the meaning of a piece of code. [Semantic HTML](https://www.semrush.com/blog/semantic-html5-guide/) refers to using HTML elements to give meaning to the structure and the content of a web page. A [semantic element](https://www.w3schools.com/html/html5_semantic_elements.asp) is an element of code that uses words to clearly represent what that element contains. In human language, semantic elements are elements with a meaning. It clearly describes their meaning in a human-and machine-readable way.

Semantic HTML is compulsory for transmitting the meaning of a webpage’s content to both the users and search engines.  They supply context to the content in order to make it reachable, decipherable, passable. Making use of semantic elements helps in creating a transparent order and grasp of the substance purpose.


## Essence of semantic html elements

Semantic html elements plays an essential role in organising content significantly through supplying a clear and comprehensive portrayal of a webpage’s components.

- Search engines use semantic elements in order to comprehend better the context and significance of the content. When a content is properly organised, it can advance search engine placement and prominence.

- Semantic elements are crafted to be suitable for developing web technologies. It makes sure your content remains operational as the web continues evolving.

- The use of semantic elements establishes a rank within the content, in order to make it easier to differentiate main sections from sun sections. 

- It enhances suitability across various browsers and devices. 
 
## Benefits of semantic elements

Semantic elements offers different benefits:

Semantic HTML improves web accessibility by providing clear, meaningful structure and context to web content. It helps screen readers and other assistive technologies in interpreting and navigating web pages, enabling users with disabilities to be able to access and engage with content more easily. 

The pages made with semantic elements are much easier to read. Using semantic elements promotes consistency in your codebase. Developers are able to follow established patterns, making cooperation and care easier.
 
Clear semantics lead to an improved user experience. Visitors can easily understand the content’s organisation and find what they’re searching for. 


## Semantic elements and non-semantic

### Semantic Elements

header: This element represents a container for introductory content or a set of directional links.

nav: The nav element represents a part of the page whose duty is to provide navigational links, either in the current document or to another document.

section: This explains a section in a document that is related to the same general concept It symbolises a thematic grouping of content. 

article: represents independent self-contained content. Such as a blog post.

<footer> this symbolizes the footer of a document. It consists of information like links to related pages, copyright information, contact information, sitemap.

Read more on Semantic Elements [here](https://www.w3schools.com/html/html5_semantic_elements.asp).

### Non-semantic Elements

Unlike semantic html, non-semantic html has no meaning. They are often used for styling purposes or to create layout structures.

div: A container for HTML elements with no specific meaning.

span: An inline container for phrasing content, also used to classify elements for styling purposes.

Read more on Non-semantic Elements [here](https://www.dremendo.com/html-tutorial/html-non-semantic-elements).

## Conclusion

With  semantic elements we are able to form a web that doesn’t just function flawlessly but also communicates effectively. Semantic elements are building blocks of accessibility.