Which mistakes should a beginner avoid?
When I started on my first Web site I made mistakes with:
- the screen resolution,
- file names,
- page complexity,
- There were too many bells and whistles
- and too early submission to the search engines.
- and I used frames.
When I reviewed the books that I had been using, I found that there had been no advice to prevent these errors. Many frustrating hours were spent making corrections. I hope that you will avoid these errors.
Screen Resolution
It is a fact that Web pages appear differently according to the screen resolution of the visitor. If your pages are configured for 1024x768 and a visitor has the screen resolution at 800x600 your pages are likely to require the use of a horizontal scroll bar to read your text. It is probably best to use 800x600 when you prepare your pages to avoid this problem.
File Names
Some Web browsers reject file names with space between the words and your visitors may not have access to all your pages.
To use this Web page as an example I have given it a file name of 'Mistakes-To-Avoid.htm' rather than 'Mistakes To Avoid.htm'
Page Complexity
If your page is too complex for your visitors they may leave your Web site.
Bells and Whistles
There are too many flashing signs sounds on some Web pages. Avoid these unless absolutely essential.
Search Engine Submission
Do not submit your Web site before it is ready. The search engines may find pages in preparation and rank you low.
Frames
Many Web browsers are unable to cope with frames and pages developed in this format may not be indexed by the search engines