REVIEWER: Understanding Principles of Web Design and
Web Development
1. What is Web Design?
Web Design is the process of planning and creating the layout, colors, text styles, structure,
graphics, and images of a website. It focuses on the look, feel, and user experience of a
website.
2. What is Web Development?
Web Development involves coding and programming to make a website function. Developers
bring web designs to life using different programming languages and to
Principles of Good Web Design
1. Simplicity
Keep the design clean and easy to use. Avoid too many colors, fonts, or graphics that can
distract users.
2. Consistency
Use the same layout, fonts, and colors across all pages to create a professional look.
3. Navigation
Menus and buttons should be easy to find and understand. Users should not struggle to move
around the site.
4. Mobile Responsiveness
The website must look and work well on all screen sizes, especially on smartphones and
tablets.
5. Clarity
Information must be clear and easy to read. Use readable fonts, good spacing, and simple
language.
6. Typography
Choose fonts that are easy to read. Use sizes and colors that make the text stand out,
especially for headings and important content.
Important Terms and Tools
Term Definition
HTML HyperText Markup Language – the structure of a webpage
CSS Cascading Style Sheets – styles the design and layout
Responsive Design A design approach that ensures the site works on all devices
SEO Search Engine Optimization – improving visibility on search engines
Mobile-first Design Designing for mobile devices before larger screens
Tips to Remember
● Web design = look and feel; web development = function and coding.
● Good websites are easy to use, fast-loading, and visually appealing.
● A user-friendly website helps people find information quickly and enjoy the
experience.
● Consistency + Simplicity = Professional Website
● HTML builds, CSS styles, and JavaScript makes it interactive (optional for basic
understanding).
Web Design Basics
● HTML (HyperText Markup Language) is used to structure the content of a website
● Web design focuses on the visual layout, colors, fonts, and user experience
● CSS (Cascading Style Sheets) styles the design and layout of a website.
● Web design includes organizing elements like text, buttons, and images.
● Typography (fonts and text) is important in creating a professional look.
Web Development Basics
● Web development focuses on functionality and uses programming and coding.
● Developers use languages like JavaScript, PHP, and Python.
● Development involves working with databases and servers.
● Testing is necessary in web development to check for bugs and errors
● Web development is different from design—it brings the design to life.
Principles of Good Web Design
● Simplicity makes a website easier to navigate and understand.
● Navigation should be clear and easy to follow.
● Consistency in layout, fonts, and colors gives a professional look.
● A responsive design allows the site to work on phones, tablets, and desktops.
● Mobile-first design means designing for mobile users first, then expanding
What NOT to Do
● A slow-loading site is not good—it drives users away.
● Complicated navigation is confusing and should be avoided.
● Ignoring mobile users is a bad practice
● A website that is hard to read or too cluttered is poor design.
● A good website must combine functionality and visual appeal.
