How Hard is It to Learn HTML? Let’s Break The Myths

Hello world!

It’s the phrase many intro-to-HTML classes start with and one of a developer's very first inside jokes. Truly, HTML skills unlock a whole new world for developers, tech enthusiasts, creative designers, and non-tech professionals alike. And what might surprise most people is just how easy it is to learn HTML. 

There are four common myths that keep people from wanting to learn basic HTML. However, having an understanding of HTML opens the door to the digital universe and all the career opportunities that entails. Is HTML the easiest language to learn? Or should you start somewhere else on your web journey? Let’s find out.

Before we get to the myths, what is HTML?

HTML stands for Hypertext Markup Language, and it’s the foundation for building web pages. It provides a structure for the content on a web page by defining various elements such as headings, paragraphs, images, links, and more. These HTML tags tell web browsers how to display the content and help search engines determine if your page has relevant content.

Myth #1: So all you can do with HTML is create web pages?

This myth has some nuance. Because at its core, this is true; with HTML, you can build a site. But more than that, with HTML, you have the power to create dynamic web pages and web-based applications. 

Whether you aim to design a simple static website or a complex interactive platform, HTML is the foundation of all web development endeavors. By learning HTML, you can structure and present content in a visually appealing and user-friendly manner. It also allows you to embed media, handle forms, and link different pages and resources together seamlessly. HTML opens the doors to a world of creativity and customization, allowing you to translate your ideas into reality. As you master HTML elements, you can also learn Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) to craft aesthetically pleasing websites.

Additionally, HTML helps you customize your web page so that search engines can find your content and deliver it to the right audiences.

For Jenny Doctor, teaching music class online for four-year-olds during COVID was difficult. To help her teach music remotely, she started diving into tech, creating asynchronous activities for the students, and making lessons on Google Slides using basic HTML. When she discovered a new passion for coding, she followed the music in her heart and enrolled in TripleTen to become a software engineer.

‍Read her story_{From Making Music to Making Commits: Jenny Doctor’s TripleTen Story}

Myth #2: Learning HTML isn’t worth my time if I’m not an engineer

In today's digital age, having a basic understanding of programming languages is becoming increasingly important. Learning HTML opens up a world of possibilities. Firstly, it provides you with the fundamental knowledge needed to understand how web pages function. This understanding is crucial for anyone seeking a career in web development or design. HTML allows you to create and customize your own web pages, making your online presence uniquely yours. 

Whether you're a blogger, entrepreneur, or hobbyist working in web design, knowing HTML enhances your ability to express yourself and connect with a global audience. HTML also promotes accessibility and inclusivity on the web. By adhering to HTML standards, you ensure that your web content is accessible to people with disabilities, improving the overall user experience and reaching a wider audience. 

Like many of us facing the rise of AI, Pedro Giestas Gomes knew his job could be automated. He was painstakingly pulling data from massive Excel files to see how much money companies needed to invest in their pension funds.

‍Learn how he revitalized his career into a data analysis role by learning HTML_{Future-Proofing a Career: Pedro Gomes’s TripleTen Story}

Myth #3: It’s difficult to learn HTML 

Is HTML really that hard to learn? HTML is actually considered one of the easiest programming languages to learn. Unlike complex programming languages that involve intricate logic and problem-solving, HTML predominantly focuses on structure and organization. Learning HTML is a logical and straightforward process that builds upon your knowledge of HTML elements and their corresponding tags.

You don’t have to learn HTML or other coding languages alone. Francis Flanagan shared that one of his favorite aspects of the TripleTen bootcamp is the Discord server that everyone uses to communicate.

Being able to ask for help or advice from tutors and other students gave me the feeling of having a shared experience with people who are going through the same thing. Francis Flanagan, TripleTen grad

‍Learn more about his journey to learning HTML here_{The Three Most Underrated Things About Bootcamps}‍

Myth #4: It’s not hard to learn basic HTML, but it is expensive 

HTML is also an open-source and widely supported computer language, meaning there are abundant resources and communities available to assist you in your learning journey. From online courses to forums and tutorials, the support network for HTML learners is vast and accessible.

There are plenty of online courses and tutorials available that cover the basics of HTML, making it easier than ever to start learning. The best part is that you can learn at your own pace, allowing you to acquire new skills whenever convenient for you.

While it may be one of the easiest programming languages, you may need more structure. Good bootcamps truly do pay for themselves. For example, 87% of TripleTen graduates get hired within 180 days and the bootcamp guarantees employment in the field you trained for within 6 months or you get a full tuition refund. 

Follow six students as they share how learning HTML was pivotal in their career journey. From a 40+ year-old mom of three who needed a fresh start to a fashion industry expert who wanted to settle down, HTML opened the door to new opportunities.

‍Check out their stories_{Time to Make a Change: TripleTen Students On What Made Them Rethink Their Careers}

Ready to start your HTML education?

Learning HTML and other coding languages is key to unlocking your full potential in this digital world. And just like in school, learning is often easier when you have mentors, community, and support. 

Explore what doors open up to you when you learn HTML. We’re here to help you get started. Take a look at our guide for the most common coding languages, the careers they align with, and how you can choose the path that’s right for you.