Before CSS took over, HTML had specific tags to control text size. The <big> tag was used to make text appear one font size larger than the surrounding text. It's a classic example of presentational HTML.

Step 2: Video

Let's see how it works. We start with a standard paragraph. Inside, we can wrap specific words with the <big> tag. Notice we use an opening and closing tag, just like bold or italics.

<p>This is standard text.</p>

Step 3: Video

Now, let's inject the big tag. We'll make the word 'HUGE' larger. The browser renders this by increasing the font size relative to the parent element.

<p>This is <big>HUGE</big> text.</p>

Step 4: Video

Here is the result. The word 'HUGE' is noticeably larger. While effective visually, modern developers avoid this tag in favor of CSS font-size properties.

<p>This is <big>HUGE</big> text.</p>

Step 5: Exercise

Checkpoint: Which tag makes text one size larger than its parent?

<p>This is <big>HUGE</big> text.</p>

Step 6: Video

You can also nest <big> tags. Placing a <big> tag inside another <big> tag multiplies the effect, making the text even larger. It stacks the size increase.

<p>Normal. <big>Big. <big>Bigger!</big></big></p>

Step 7: Video

See? The word 'Bigger!' is two steps larger than the normal text. It's simple but can clutter your code quickly if overused.

<p>Normal. <big>Big. <big>Bigger!</big></big></p>

Step 8: Video

Important: The <big> tag is deprecated in HTML5. This means browsers still support it, but you should not use it in new projects. Use CSS instead.


<span style="font-size: larger;">Better</span>

Step 9: Video

Now it's your turn. Practice using the tag to understand how legacy codebases work, and unlock your Size Master achievement!

big_tag.html

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Tutor:Before CSS took over, HTML had specific tags to control text size. The <big> tag was used to make text appear one font size larger than the surrounding text. It's a classic example of presentational HTML.

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Size Mastery

Unlock nodes by learning legacy sizing tags.

Concept 1: Legacy Code

Legacy tags are old HTML elements that are no longer part of the standard but still work in browsers.

System Check

What does it mean if a tag is 'deprecated'?

It is broken.It is discouraged.It is faster.It is invisible.

Community Holo-Net

Share Your Legacy Code

Found a website still using the big tag? Share your archeological findings.

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The Big Tag & Sizing

Pascual Vila

Frontend Instructor.

The <big> tag was part of the original HTML specification intended to manipulate text size directly. It renders text one font size larger than the surrounding content.

Why use it? (Historically)

Before CSS was robust, developers needed quick ways to emphasize text visually without implying semantic importance (like <strong> or <h1>). The big tag was a purely presentational tool.

HTML5 Deprecation

In HTML5, this tag is non-conforming. This means it is obsolete and strictly discouraged. Modern web design separates content (HTML) from presentation (CSS).

The Alternative

Instead of <big>, use the CSS property font-size. For example: style="font-size: larger;" achieves the exact same effect but adheres to modern standards.

Sizing Glossary

Big Tag: A deprecated HTML tag <big> that increases the font size of the text it wraps by one level.
Small Tag: The opposite of big. The <small> tag renders text one size smaller. Unlike big, small is not deprecated as it has acquired semantic meaning (fine print).
Deprecated: Features that are no longer recommended for use and may be removed in future versions of web standards.
Nesting: Putting tags inside other tags. With <big>, nesting <big><big>Text</big></big> makes the text two sizes larger.

📖 INDEX