For the beginner, the words JavaScript and HTML are just terms you’ve probably heard of. So, assuming some of these beginners are reading this article, let’s start with the definition of these words. HTML stands for HyperTextMarkup Language, which is “the tags used to structure web pages so that a browser can display them in a way that is also influenced by the browser’s layout and user preferences for font, style, etc.”. (See 1). Meanwhile, JavaScript is “a scripting language most commonly used for adding interactive features and web pages.” (See 2).

Basically, HTML tags create what you put on your page, and JavaScript allows you to manipulate what you put on your web page. Just imagine a web page that only has HTML. It would just look like a simple written document. You wouldn’t even be able to go to the next page. But if you use JavaScript in your web page, you will be able to move things around.

So what are the benefits of using JavaScript in HTML code?

1. JavaScript will improve visualizations As mentioned above, if a web page were just plain HTML, it would be just a page full of text. You won’t be able to move and you won’t even be able to turn to the next page.
2. JavaScript will allow many page effects Some page effects that JavaScript allows are:
   1. User time on page
   2. Popups and Tooltips
   3. collapsing text
   4. timeout page
   5. Color changes and fades
   6. Font size and feathering
   7. ultimate fader
   8. integrated audio
   9. print page/item
   10. scroll banners
   11. flying text
   12. news scroller
   13. Automated popups
   14. image transitions
   15. toggle buttons
3. JavaScript will add user interactivity

   The special effects that are added to the web page will make it more interactive. Your website user/visitor will want to continue exploring within the website.

4. JavaScript will provide seamless integration with user plugins

   JavaScript not only provides access to HTML objects, but also provides access to browser- and platform-specific objects, such as browser plug-ins (eg, Adobe Acrobat, Media Player).

5. JavaScript will allow client-side user form validation

   If JavaScript is available, an initial validation of the website client can be performed to check for simple errors, such as missing information or non-numeric characters mistakenly placed in a non-numeric field. As a result, the website user receives feedback faster than having to wait for a response from the server.

6. JavaScript will allow access to certain system information

You need JavaScript to make your website visually appealing to potential customers and visitors by adding interactivity and dynamics to HTML pages. After all, who would want to go to a website that only has one page full of text? The web page would not look good, not to say boring.

So, use all the tools you need to learn JavaScript. Just do some research on the web, or better yet, have an expert teach you. You will find that making a great website can be easy.

1. http://www.upei.ca/~meincke/glossary.htm

two. http://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/Java_Script