Why Learn Web Design?

We all have computers these days (you're reading this, aren't you?) and there are billions of web pages, and millions of people who know how to design them. For the internet layperson, it may seem that web development is far beyond what they are capable of. But nothing has ever been further from the truth.

If you can remember a new phone number-or at least write one down-or read new words you've never seen before, and then remember them, you have exactly what it takes to learn at least the basics of web design.

Is it really that easy? Is it as easy as simple memorization? Yes, it really is. And even if you can't memorize, you can still write down what you need to know or save one of the many HTML reference sites to your favorites tab.

But this article is not so much about how to HTML as it is why HTML. So why should we know at least the basics of HTML? If you are reading this, you may already have your reasons. You may want to build a personal website, or even start an e-business. You may just want to spruce up your Myspace page or brag that you know all about how the web works.

How about that it's so easy to learn, and that you spend so much time online, you're foolish not to? How about that it'll enhance your web experience? The World Wide Web is the only place (I can think of) that so many people can come to and everyone can, not only be a part of it, but help build upon it. Could you imagine if this was true for grocery stores?

What would it be like if we could all walk into Wal-Mart and pick and choose what products are on the shelves, for what prices (most things on the internet really are free), and how good they are? Want a second story on your local shopping center? Put one there. Want more handicapped spaces? Put them there. More checkouts, greeters, and fewer lines? Do you get my drift? Who built the internet? We did. Well, not you, not unless you know the code.

The code? Like a secret handshake? Egyptian hieroglyphics? Do you need the Rosetta stone to decipher all this? Not a chance. All you need is your noggin and a little time and effort to play around.