HTML Paragraphs

Structure readable text with paragraphs and line breaks.

Paragraphs group sentences that develop one idea. Browsers collapse ordinary source whitespace, so line breaks and indentation in the file do not automatically create visual paragraphs. Use p for prose, br only for meaningful line breaks, hr for a thematic break, and pre when whitespace itself is part of the content.

Group complete thoughts with p

A paragraph should contain phrasing content, such as text, links, emphasis, and inline code. It cannot contain headings, lists, sections, or another paragraph. Start a new p when the subject or role of the text changes.

<h1>Why semantic HTML matters</h1>
<p>Semantic elements communicate the role of content to browsers and assistive technology.</p>
<p>That shared meaning makes a page easier to navigate, maintain, and adapt.</p>

• Use one p for one coherent thought.
• Let CSS create visual spacing between paragraphs.
• Use br for addresses, poems, or other meaningful line breaks.
• Use hr when the topic shifts within a section.
• Use pre when spaces and line breaks must be preserved.

Choose br, hr, and pre for their real jobs

A br is a line break inside one piece of content, not a spacing tool. An hr marks a thematic transition and is announced as a separator. A pre block preserves source whitespace and is often paired with code for examples.