Document and website structure

Basic sections of a document

header:

navigation bar:

main content:
sidebar:

Links to the site’s main sections; usually represented by menu buttons, links, or tabs. Like the header, this content usually remains consistent from one webpage to another — having inconsistent navigation on your website will just lead to confused, frustrated users. Many web designers consider the navigation bar to be part of the header rather than an individual component, but that’s not a requirement; in fact, some also argue that having the two separate is better for accessibility, as screen readers can read the two features better if they are separate.

Structuring a page of content

A strip across the bottom of the page that generally contains fine print, copyright notices, or contact info. It’s a place to put common information (like the header) but usually, that information is not critical or secondary to the website itself. The footer is also sometimes used for SEO purposes, by providing links for quick access to popular content.