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Tables: Tables for layout
The nature of tables - splitting up information into rows and columns - is eminently suited to the creation of a page layout. This is why tables were used for the visual design of websites, at a time when the technical layout options were severely limited. Nowadays, this trick is still most common, compared to alternative layout techniques.
The use of tables for layout has a number of significant advantages and disadvantages. Contrary to the time when the idea of using table markup for layout was being formed, these days there is a better alternative for website design.
Use tables to display relational information and do not use them for layout.
Guideline R-pd.11.1
Guidelines for the use of tables for layout
Web developers are motivated to aim for separation of structure and presentation and for the use of meaningful markup. CSS is recommended for the presentation of web pages and tables should be avoided for layout.
- Factors that prevent migration to a complete CSS layout
- Misunderstandings about CSS for layout
- Using tables for layout
Sometimes it may be decided to maintain tables for layout on a website. In such a situation, tables should be used judiciously.
