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Jennifer's Web Design / HTML Blog

By Jennifer Kyrnin, About.com Guide to Web Design / HTML since 1997

Learn HTML forms

Saturday November 29, 2008
If you already know HTML, but you still don't understand forms, this class will help. After 5 days you will know how to use form tags, how to write a mailto or CGI form, how to decorate your forms, and even how to validate them with JavaScript. HTML forms are hard but this class will help make them easy.

Comments

November 30, 2008 at 12:12 am
(1) Peggy says:

I would beware of using “mailto:” because it normally generates a lot of spam. If I remember correctly, CGI is a good way to use forms. I think a php or asp form (depending on your platform) with security and spam filters is a better solution.

November 30, 2008 at 1:51 pm
(2) Jennifer Kyrnin says:

Hi Peggy,

Yes, using mailto as a link on a Web page will generate a lot of spam. But mailto: forms are not as likely to. And if you’re really concerned, you can use a tool like an Email encoder such as this JavaScript tool: http://email.about.com/cs/winemailencrevs/gr/ass_maker.htm

Forms, in general, can get tons and tons of spam. But it doesn’t matter if it’s a mailto form or a CGI or PHP form.

And the most common reason to use a mailto form is if you don’t have CGI access or doing know how to use or write a CGI or Perl script. This is an easy way for beginners to get a form onto their Web page.

December 1, 2008 at 7:26 am
(3) Peggy Shields says:

Ah, I see what you mean – I was confusing the “mailto” terms. You’re right, of course! ;-)

Thanks for the clarification. I cringe when I see an email link on a website and of course that is the first thought I had.

March 26, 2009 at 9:40 am
(4) Alexis says:

Good site, admin.

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