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Difference between SRC and HREF

html
responsive-design
best-practices
html5
Alex KataevbyAlex KataevΒ·Dec 1, 2024
⚑TLDR

The src attribute is used to embed content directly into your document, such as images or scripts:

<!-- Wait till you see this... 😎 --> <img src="dope_pic.jpg">

On the other hand, the href attribute is used to set a link to external resources like other web pages, stylesheets, etc.:

<!-- Let's take a quick trip πŸš€ --> <a href="another_page.html">Click Me, if you dare!</a> <link rel="stylesheet" href="style.css">

In a nutshell, src stands for bringing stuff in, while href is all about making connections.

SRC: Embedding the Good Stuff

src attribute is your go-to when you want to place content such as JavaScript files, images, or CSS directly into your HTML document:

<!-- These aren't the droids you're looking for. But scripts, oh boy! πŸ€– --> <script src="fancy_script.js"></script>

But beware! HTML pauses to fetch and run src content. So, consider the JavaScript files at the bottom or use async or defer attributes to control the execution times. This way, users get the 'above-the-folder' content displayed fast and your website doesn't feel like a sloth race πŸ¦₯.

HREF: Making Connections

href is all about creating links. It points to other documents or defines a relationship with an external source:

<!-- Get dolled up, we're going out! πŸ’ƒ --> <link rel="stylesheet" href="style.css">

Remember, href is also the alpha dog when it comes to hyperlinks. To peek into the magical world of CSS or to step into another webpage, href is your ticket to ride 🎫.

Practical Visualisation

Let's visualize your HTML page as a building site. Not just any building, but the developer's Lego Dream House 🏠:

SRC = Material Supplier πŸš›

πŸš› Directly drops off resources (building blocks) on your site. Like an overly attached friend, what's in the delivery becomes part of your page.

HREF = Architect πŸ“

πŸ“ Provides blueprints to guide the building process (CSS instructions). A cool headed mentor that tells you what goes where but doesn't bulldoze their way in.

So, SRC is for incorporation, HREF for coordination.

SRC vs HREF: Mastering the Use

Using src and href might seem like wizardry but fear not! Let's sort out the magic:

  • src stops the world (of HTML parsing) when it's fetching the dragon's treasure (images, JS, CSS). So, place it thoughtfully to avoid making your page look like an unfinished puzzle for too long.
  • href on the other hand, is the social butterfly of your HTML document, setting up connections left and right. Be sure not to abuse it or you might end up in a tangled web (pun intended) of stylesheets πŸ•ΈοΈ.

And remember, with great coding power comes great HTML5 specs responsibility. So, stay sharp & keep yourself updated with the latest do's and don'ts (it's not as scary as it sounds).