How to use progressive enhancement in HTML

What to know about progressive enhancement in HTML

Start with strong HTML that works without CSS or JavaScript. Then layer in enhancements for richer interactivity. This chapter explains the concept, demonstrates a practical example, and gives you a guided exercise.

How to use progressive enhancement in HTML

Choose elements for their meaning, nest them in a clear document structure, and use descriptive attributes. Check that links and forms work with a keyboard and that images have useful alternative text.

Example: progressive enhancement in HTML

Use this example as a starting point. Identify the part that controls the result, then adapt it to your own page or project.

<a href="download.pdf">Download report</a>
<button type="button">Print</button>

Common questions about progressive enhancement

When should I use progressive enhancement?

Use this technique when it expresses the structure, styling, or behavior your page needs. Keep the implementation focused and test it with the surrounding content.

What should I practice next?

Build a small profile page using a heading, paragraph, image with alt text, a link, and a semantic main element.