HTML Documentation Page Markup: Steps, Warnings, and Code Blocks

A how-to page works best when one step leads clearly to the next. Numbered instructions help visitors keep their place when completing a task.

What You Need to Know

Put important warnings next to the relevant step. Code snippets should use pre and code so copying them does not lose formatting.

The goal is not to collect as many tags as possible. Pick the element that best describes what the content really is.

Example: See It in Action

This example keeps the idea small. Copy it carefully, then follow the explanation instead of guessing what the browser will do.

This is a short HTML fragment. To try it as a webpage, put it inside the body element of a complete HTML document.

<article>
    <h1>Connect to Wi-Fi</h1>
    <h2>Steps</h2>
    <ol>
        <li>Open Settings.</li>
        <li>Choose your network.</li>
        <li>Enter the password.</li>
    </ol>
    <p><strong>Note:</strong> Use a trusted network.</p>
</article>

Let’s Understand the Example

• Article marks a piece that could make sense on its own, such as a news post or recipe.
• An h1 introduces the main subject of the page. Use the heading level for structure rather than font size.
• An h2 starts a major section beneath the page topic.

You should see distinct list items. Ask whether their order carries meaning: if the order matters, use an ordered list; otherwise use an unordered list.

What Should You See?

The page should display “Connect to Wi-Fi” as a heading, followed by its related content. Change the heading text and refresh the browser to see the result.

Read only the headings, from top to bottom. Do they tell a sensible story? If not, move sections or choose levels that match the content.

Try It Yourself

1. Add a Requirements section before the ordered list.
2. Save your changes, open or refresh the page, and compare the result with the original example.
3. Tell a friend what your change did. If you are not sure, undo it, refresh the page, and compare.

Common Beginner Mistakes

• Hiding a required prerequisite after the user has already begun the steps.
• Avoid picking tags just for their default bold, italic or spaced appearance. Use CSS for presentation.

Key Takeaways

• A how-to page works best when one step leads clearly to the next.
• Article marks a piece that could make sense on its own, such as a news post or recipe.
• Put important warnings next to the relevant step. Code snippets should use pre and code so copying them does not lose formatting.