Writing for the Web

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Frames divide the document you are viewing on a screen into independent parts. A table of contents might be displayed in one frame, while a page containing text might be displayed in another, and a navigation menu might be displayed in yet another:

Figure 1: A Page Using Four Frames to Separate Content and Navigation Tools

Most Web site designers who use frames use two frames: one for a menu or a set of navigation tools and a second for displaying pages that contain content. In fact, frames have a poor reputation among many Web designers because they are so frequently misused. Research suggests, however, that a two-frame design that keeps a navigation menu in front of your readers is more effective in helping readers navigate your site than most non-framed sites.

Consider using frames if you want to provide constant access to specific types of information or to navigation tools. Note, however, that although frames can aid your readers' ability to navigate your Web site, they also pose some problems for users. It can be difficult to bookmark a specific page on a Web site that uses frames. It can be difficult to search sites that use frames. In addition, Web users can also have difficulty printing pages displayed in frames.

Links Page: Learn more about Web design on the Web Style Guidelines links page. Coding Primer: Learn how to create framed Web sites in Using Frames.

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