You might see <dd> Element reference while reading someone else’s HTML, or need it while building a page of your own. Instead of memorizing a definition, look at a working example and see when the element makes sense.
The Idea in Plain English
Provides a description or value for a preceding dt term within a description list.
For a reference page, pay attention to where the element is allowed, whether it needs a closing tag, and what other elements it can contain.
A Working Example
Read the sample once before copying it. Notice the element names and attribute values, then compare them with the explanation below.
<dl>
<dt>RAM</dt>
<dd>Short-term computer memory.</dd>
</dl>What Each Part Does
- A dd provides the matching description.
- A dl groups terms with their descriptions.
- A dt identifies a term or name.
RAM is paired with its definition.
Try It Yourself
Try replacing the example content with your own while keeping the valid HTML structure.
Common Beginner Mistakes
- Using dd outside a description list.
- Changing several parts of the example at once, making it difficult to see which part caused a different result.
- Choosing a tag only because its default appearance looks right, without checking whether it describes the content correctly.
Key Takeaways
- Provides a description or value for a preceding dt term within a description list.
- RAM is paired with its definition.
- Test the markup in a browser, and check accessibility and real-world behavior where relevant.