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Web design tools range from basic programs to professional software. Commercial software, site builders, and word processors are common options. Hand coding with a word processor allows for more control but can be tedious and prone to errors.
There are a variety of web design tools to choose from, ranging from the super complex to the most basic of programs found on nearly any personal computer. Virtually anyone with Internet access and a little time can build a fully functional website without having to go to design school. Professional website designers also have a number of design tools to choose from, most of which are capable of creating visually appealing works of art. Common web design tools include commercial web design software, professional grade software, site builders and word processors.
Commercial design software programs are web design tools that can be used by both novice and professional designers. There is a wide variety of programs to choose from, and some are significantly more sophisticated than others. The simplest types are usually template editors that allow users to type text and insert graphics into specified boxes. More advanced options allow for similar template functionality, but with more freedom to modify each template and add more code to tailor the design to your desired preferences.
Site builders are also web design tools usually reserved for inexperienced users. These are usually found online, often as part of a hosting company’s service package. Users simply choose a predesigned template and add text and graphics. Your design options may be limited with site builders, but you can create quite attractive and professional looking sites.
Word processors can also be web design tools, although only experienced designers are usually able to use this method. Hypertext Markup Language (HTML) is the primary language used to build websites and is the primary language understood by web browsers. Web design tools generally have templates that use a graphical interface to make site design easier for users inexperienced, but HTML coding is still added in the backend.
When using a word processor, there is usually no graphical interface. The designer must hand-type all HTML coding. This can be a long and tedious process, but it can allow for more control than commercial design products. Since the designer has full access and control over any code used, he can also modify and add code as he sees fit without restrictions.
Using a word processor has some drawbacks. When everything is done exclusively by hand, there is a lot of room for human error. Specialized scripts and other highly sophisticated features can also be more difficult to add when working in a basic word processor. In most cases, designers find it easier to combine hand coding with GUI software programs.
