Site Advice
Note: This tutorial is simply me giving you some (what I hope is) helpful advice that I have gained through my years as a web designer. I am NOT saying that my website is the best, and therefore you should all listen to me. My advice may work for some, but not for others.
Your Layout
Your layout is one of the most important things on your site. People judge your site on how good your layout is. So here are a few tips.
- DON’T put too many animations or glitters on your layout. One or two may be okay, but if there are too many it could hurt your visitors eyes, and be considered kinda tacky.
- DON’T use too bright colours. Light and dark tones are fine. Bright yellow or Lime Green? Umm… Not so much.
- Try to make your own layouts. You’ll be taken so much more seriously if you do. You can also add some of your own personality in it, because you do it the way YOU want it and the way YOU like it. If you really can’t make your own layout, you can get someone else to do it.
- If you can't make your own layout, NEVER steal someone elses! This is major copyright, plus they have every right to get annoyed with you... and people won't like your site. Just don't do it.
Graphics
- Never steal other people's graphics This is really bad... and also copyright. If they are there to be taken, fine. But make sure you are allowed to use them for your websites first.
- Try to make your own graphics. Even if they're not very good. It doesn't really matter, you're learning! =) No one can moan at you for that. But, as I mentioned with the layouts, when making your own graphics, the graphics get a touch of your personality, making them original.
- Don't make your graphics too flashy. Please. I've seen so many people do this, and it looks so tacky I want to cry =(. Graphics can look cool without being too in your face.
Content
The content on your site is the most important part of your site.
- Try to be original. Why would someone go on your site to see what everyone else has?! Sometimes it is hard to be original, but really try to think outside the box. Your site will become much more loved.
- Try to update new things often. I know I don't, but I do try. I'm not saying update every day, just maybe every now and again. People will start getting bored otherwise.
- Don't copy and paste from other sites. It's just copying. And shows you have no originality.