HTML Attributes

Attributes configure element behavior by adding properties to opening tags using name="value" syntax patterns.

Attributes transform basic HTML elements into powerful, configurable components. Mastering attribute usage enables you to control element functionality, appearance, and interaction with precision.

Understanding Attribute Mechanics

Attributes inject supplementary configuration data into HTML elements. Key characteristics include:

  • Written exclusively within opening tags
  • Structured as name/value combinations like property="setting"
  • Multiple attributes separated by whitespace characters
  • Controls how elements function and render visually
Best Practice: Always wrap attribute values in quotation marks. Double quotes represent the standard convention, though single quotes work equally well.

The href Navigation Property

Links utilize the href property within <a> tags to establish click destinations:

Hyperlink Reference Example

<a href="https://www.htmlfreecodes.com">Explore HTML Free Codes</a>

Experiment Yourself

Build various link types by manipulating the href property!

Practice href Usage

The src Resource Locator

Image elements require the src property to locate and load visual files within <img> tags:

Image Source Configuration

<img src="https://www.htmlfreecodes.com/brand.png" alt="Site Branding" width="200" height="100">

Result:

HTML Free Codes
Logo

The alt Attribute

The alt attribute provides alternative text for an image if it cannot be displayed. It's also used by screen readers for accessibility:

HTML alt Attribute Example

<img src="tutorial.jpg" alt="HTML Tutorial for Beginners">
Accessibility: Always use the alt attribute for images. It helps visually impaired users understand the content through screen readers.

The style Attribute

The style attribute is used to add styles to an element, such as color, font, size, and more:

HTML style Attribute Examples

<p style="color: red;">This is a red paragraph.</p>
<p style="color: blue; font-size: 20px;">This is a blue, large paragraph.</p>
<p style="background-color: yellow; padding: 10px;">This paragraph has a yellow background.</p>

Result:

This is a red paragraph.

This is a blue, large paragraph.

This paragraph has a yellow background.

Test Your Knowledge