HTML in VS Code

Create index.html

Learn to create a complete HTML entry document and give the browser a valid starting page in this beginner-friendly Visual Studio Code lesson.

Learning outcomes

  • Explain how to create a complete HTML entry document.
  • Complete the guided activity safely.
  • Check that you can give the browser a valid starting page.

Before you begin

Use a non-sensitive practice folder, inspect unfamiliar code before trusting it, and never place passwords, tokens or private information in project files.

Open official guidance ↗

Step-by-step instructions

  1. Open the intended practice workspace in Visual Studio Code and confirm its folder name and Workspace Trust state.
  2. Add doctype, language, head and body.
  3. Save the relevant files and review the Problems panel, terminal, Source Control view or browser preview as appropriate.
  4. Check filenames, relative paths, console messages, keyboard use, mobile layout and privacy before continuing.
  5. Confirm that you can give the browser a valid starting page, then create a clear commit, backup or saved checkpoint.
Ian's practical tip: Work in one named project folder, preview after small changes, read the actual error message and keep a recoverable version before broad edits.

Practical activity

Add doctype, language, head and body. The expected result is to give the browser a valid starting page.

Completion checklist