This introductory-level article provides checklists to help with planning a new website. Tips include the effect background colors can have on site visitors and page length considerations such as using shorter pages to break up text by topic or using longer page lengths for ease of printing.

Designing a web page is a creative process. The page gives you the opportunity to express yourself or convey information using an interesting array of options including text, graphics, photos, video, sound, and animation.

Like most creative endeavors, however, the process is not linear or step-by-step. Therefore, it's best to understand the elements necessary to create a page and then find the way that works best for you.

Your page will change many times as your idea evolves into the final product. To begin, don't be afraid to keep it simple. Create a page with just text and a graphic to get a feel for how it all works.