Where Did the Reference Come From?
This term is borrowed from the world of print media, referring to the space above the fold in the mid-section of a newspaper that is visible on the newstand. Typically, this space includes the headline and a striking cover image to attract attention from readers.
What Does “Above The Fold” Mean?
“Above the fold” refers to the portion of a webpage that is visible without the need to scroll down. It is typically located at the top of the page and is the first thing that a visitor sees when they land on a website.
The term “above the fold” comes from the newspaper industry, where it referred to the part of the front page that was visible in a newspaper rack before someone had to fold the paper over to see the rest of the content.
In the context of web design, the “fold” is the bottom of the browser window or the point at which a visitor would need to start scrolling down to see more content.
The content and design elements that appear “above the fold” are often considered the most important, as they are the first things that visitors see and can play a crucial role in determining whether they stay on the site or leave.
Why Is Understanding “Above The Fold” Important?
Understanding the concept of “above the fold” is important for web designers and marketers because it helps them to prioritize the most important content and design elements on a webpage.
When designing a website, it is important to consider what elements should be placed above the fold in order to grab the attention of visitors and encourage them to stay on the site.
This can include the main headline and supporting images or graphics, a call to action (such as a sign-up form or button), and any other important information that you want visitors to see immediately. By understanding the importance of the content above the fold, web designers and marketers can create a more effective and engaging user experience that encourages visitors to stay on the site and explore further.
Additionally, understanding the concept of “above the fold” can also be useful for analyzing the effectiveness of a website’s design and layout, and for identifying any potential problems or areas for improvement.
