Block Elements vs. Inline Elements
Some XHTML elements are "block" elements, and others are "inline" elements. Block elements are chunks of content that form a rectangle, or block, such as paragraphs, tables, block quotes, bulleted lists, numbered lists, and list items. They all start on a new line. Inline elements, in contrast, do not start a new line. Links and images fall into this category. In the example below, I have applied a blue background to a paragraph (a block element). Notice that the background stretches to the edge of the borders of this page and that the paragraph is on its own line. It is not a part of the paragraph above it. I have also applied a yellow background to a link (an inline element). Notice that the background does not stretch across the full width of the paragraph. The dimensions of the link are confined to the small area that the text occupies and the link is on the same line as the paragraph in which it resides.
This is a paragraph with a link to GMU.
Here are a couple more inline elements worth knowing:
| Element | Opening | Closing | The default visual effect in the browser |
|---|---|---|---|
| Strong emphasis | <strong> | </strong> | Bold text |
| Emphasis | <em> | </em> | Italicized text |
<p><strong>Note:</strong> Don't forget to tie your shoes, even if you don't <em>want</em> to tie your shoes.</p>
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