Web Design

Although I had some familiarity with HTML, relearning it as an adult was an eye-opening experience. Not only is web design coding an incredibly challenging task, but with a lot of minutiae to manage, it can be incredibly rewarding. Coding is one of the few tasks that supplies immediate gratification upon completion and correcting. Coding requires that the coder is not only challenged to think critically and troubleshooting everything, big and small. These projects were especially interesting because they also had the added layer of creative design. I especially enjoyed this aspect of transforming ideas, into functionalities, into visually appealing websites, that were published out for anyone, namely friends and my parents, to enjoy!

Creating my quiz was a mix of challenges and triumphs. I used Microsoft Notepad for editing, though formatting issues occasionally arose when transferring text. I methodically adjusted the code—starting with question customization, debugging quotation marks, and enhancing aesthetics. I leveraged prior C++ knowledge, Google searches, and a cycle of trial-and-error to refine my design. From adding Harry Potter trivia and CSS styling to implementing gradients and figuring out how to insert images into a web address, it was rewarding seeing the process as it was completed!

Transforming the quiz into a syllable-sorting activity allowed me to personalize it while enhancing clarity and engagement. I replaced the drag content with a word List and updated the instructions and completion message for a better user experience. I allowed multiple attempts by unlocking the answer choices. To add a fun touch, I included a congratulatory image at the bottom of the code. I also customized the design with CSS by altering the colors of tiles, backgrounds, text, and borders, using Arial for readability and center-aligning text. Adjusting column dimensions ensured a polished, visually appealing layout.

From experimenting with layouts, colors, and interactive elements to debugging syntax errors, this experience taught me patience, problem-solving, research skills, and the importance of trial-and-error reinforced my skills. Overall, coding has deepened my appreciation for the complexity of web design.