Tag code

The <code> tag is used to represent inline code within a document. It’s commonly used to display programming code or commands. It semantically indicates that the enclosed text is computer code, which is helpful for both users and search engines.

✅ Basic Syntax

<p>The <code>print()</code> function is used to output text in Python.</p>

📍 Result:
The word print() will appear in a monospaced font (default browser styling for <code>), distinguishing it as code.


📚 Common Use Cases

  • Programming code: To display snippets of code within a block of text.
  • Terminal commands: To show shell commands or CLI instructions.
  • API methods or function names: To highlight functions like getElementById() or console.log().

🖥️ Example with Multiple Code Snippets

Here’s an example using the <code> tag for inline code:

<p>To declare a variable in JavaScript, use <code>let x = 5;</code>.</p>

📍 Result:
The let x = 5; will appear in a monospaced font, indicating that it’s a code snippet.

📑 Combining <code> with <pre> for Block Code

For longer code blocks, it’s best to use <pre> (preformatted text) along with <code>. This combination preserves whitespace and formatting.

<pre><code>
function helloWorld() {
console.log("Hello, World!");
}
</code></pre>

📍 Result:
The code will be displayed as a block, preserving indentation and line breaks.


🎨 Styling the <code> Tag

You can easily style the <code> tag using CSS:

<style>
code {
font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;
background-color: #f4f4f4;
padding: 2px 4px;
border-radius: 4px;
}
</style>

<p>The <code>console.log()</code> function is often used for debugging.</p>

📌 Key Differences Between <code> and <pre>

TagUse CaseBehavior
<code>Inline code snippetDisplays code in monospaced font
<pre>Preformatted block of codeMaintains whitespace and line breaks (for blocks of code)
<code> + <pre>Long code block with formattingPreserves both formatting and indentation

✅ Summary

FeatureDescription
Tag<code>
PurposeRepresents inline code
StylingBy default: monospaced font
UsageProgramming code, terminal commands, API functions