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semanticseasy

Why use semantic HTML instead of divs everywhere?

Answer

Semantic elements describe what the content is, which the browser then exposes to assistive technology as real landmarks and roles — a screen reader user can jump straight to nav or main. It also gives free behaviour: a button is focusable and fires on Enter and Space, where a clickable div does none of that unless you rebuild it. Search engines and future maintainers both read the structure more reliably too.

Points an interviewer listens for

  • Elements convey meaning, not just appearance
  • Landmarks let assistive tech navigate directly
  • Native elements bring keyboard behaviour for free
  • Better for SEO and for maintainers

Reported at

Similar questions have been reported by candidates at Tekwissen, Deloitte, ECSION RESEARCH LABS, Houzeo, MOBAVENUE MEDIA, Motilal Oswal Financial Services.

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