HTML Area Target Attribute

The HTML Area Target Attribute is an essential feature for web developers that allows you to control how content is displayed when a user interacts with an area within an image map. By specifying the target attribute, you can direct the browser to open links in a specific browsing context. In this article, we will explore the area target attribute in detail, illustrating its importance with various examples, tables, and explanations tailored for beginners.

I. Introduction

A. Definition of Area Target Attribute

The area target attribute is used within the <area> element of an image map to specify how the linked document will be displayed. It allows for more refined control over user navigation, ensuring that web developers can create a seamless user experience.

B. Importance of the Target Attribute in HTML

Using the target attribute is critical for controlling the browsing behavior of a webpage. It helps maintain the user’s context and enhances the usability of a web application. Depending on its value, it can affect how pages are loaded, which can ultimately improve the experience of users.

II. The Target Attribute

A. Description

The target attribute can be applied to various HTML elements, including <a> (anchor) and <area>. This attribute provides a way to define where the linked document will open. When using area elements in an image map, understanding how the target attribute works is crucial for creating effective navigation within a site or application.

B. Possible Values

There are several values that you can assign to the target attribute. The most common are:

Value	Description
_blank	Opens the linked document in a new tab or window.
_self	Opens the linked document in the same frame as it was clicked (default).
_parent	Opens the linked document in the parent frame.
_top	Opens the linked document in the full body of the window.
Named windows	Opens the linked document in a named window, which must be defined in your HTML.

III. Example of Area Target Attribute

A. Code Example

Here is a simple example of using the area target attribute within an image map:

<img src="example.jpg" usemap="#examplemap" alt="Example Image">

<map name="examplemap">
    <area shape="rect" coords="34,44,270,350" 
          href="https://www.example1.com" 
          target="_blank" 
          alt="Example 1">
    <area shape="circle" coords="337,300,44" 
          href="https://www.example2.com" 
          target="_self" 
          alt="Example 2">
    <area shape="poly" coords="200,10,250,190,160,210" 
          href="https://www.example3.com" 
          target="_parent" 
          alt="Example 3">
</map>

B. Explanation of the Example

In the above code:

• The <img> tag displays an image with an associated image map called examplemap.
• The first <area> defines a rectangular area that links to example1.com and opens in a new tab (due to target=”_blank”).
• The second <area> defines a circular area that links to example2.com and opens in the same frame (due to target=”_self”).
• The third <area> defines a polygonal area that links to example3.com and opens in the parent frame (due to target=”_parent”).

IV. Browser Compatibility

A. Support for the Target Attribute

The target attribute is widely supported across all major browsers (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge, etc.). This ensures that web developers can rely on its functionality to enhance user navigation effectively.

B. Differences in Behavior Across Browsers

While the target attribute functions consistently in modern browsers, there are subtle differences that developers should be aware of:

• _blank sometimes defaults to opening in a new window rather than a tab in older versions of some browsers.
• Browser settings may affect how links behave (for example, some users may configure their browsers to always open new tabs instead of new windows).
• Mobile browsers can handle target attributes differently due to screen size limitations, often collapsing multiple links into the same view.

V. Conclusion

A. Summary of the Area Target Attribute

The HTML Area Target Attribute provides a powerful means for managing how content is presented to users when they click on links defined within an image map. This control is key in crafting a positive user experience that respects navigation preferences.

B. Final Thoughts on Usage in Web Development

Incorporating the target attribute in your web projects is an effective way to enhance user experience and maximize site usability. Always consider the context of your links and how they interact with the user experience when deciding which target value to use.

FAQ

• What happens if I don’t specify a target attribute? If no target attribute is specified, the default behavior is that the link will open in the current window or tab.
• Can I use JavaScript to control the target attribute? Yes, you can manipulate the target attribute using JavaScript if dynamic behavior is required.
• Is it necessary to include the target attribute for all links? It is not mandatory, but it is recommended for controlling link behaviors consistently.
• How does the target attribute affect SEO? While there are no direct SEO implications, user experience can indirectly impact search engine rankings, so it’s important to use it thoughtfully.