Introduction

CSS has become so phenomenally successful—almost as successful as HTML itself—that it is sometimes hard to grasp. It's everywhere now, from Web browsers to app stores to chat clients, and it doesn't show any signs of fading away. As the language's use continues to spread, its capabilities continue to advance.

This book contains close to 100 tips, techniques, tools, and tricks for making great Web sites using CSS. Each of them is meant to stand on its own: you can flip to any random page and just read what you find there and not worry you've missed something crucial earlier in the chapter. What that means is that the text assumes you are at least somewhat familiar with CSS and how it's used. The assumed level of proficiency is best described as "advanced beginner to intermediate." So if you're just starting out, or if you typically know more about CSS than the people writing the specifications, you're not likely to get much out of this book. For everyone else, there's a fair amount to learn and enjoy.

In part 1 of the book, there's an overview of handy tools and fundamental techniques, including some of the more obscure CSS selectors. Part 2 presents a variety of things you can do with CSS including interesting effects, different routes to the same goal, layouts, and more. Then in part 3 are the advanced, cutting-edge techniques that might not be ready to use on every project you get this month but will become more and more central to your work as time progresses.

Please visit the book's companion Web site at www.wiley.com/go/smashingcss to download code samples.

Little more than a decade ago, you might have been forgiven for thinking CSS was on its deathbed, but as of 2010 it's more vibrantly alive and compelling than ever. I hope you'll enjoy what's found between the covers of this book as much as I enjoyed assembling it!