Learn how to create web-based reports with HTML in six easy steps. Discover how to use HTML tags, CSS styles, and online tools to make your reports interactive, dynamic, and responsive.

I would always recommend to build HTML templates from scratch. But yeah if you are a beginner you can always follow tutorials and get some idea from online source. In order to have strong base of html first have a good knowledge of block and inline elements, when to use HTML semantic tag (like header, footer), what tags to use for lists, self closing tags and so on. Then always try to validate your HTML template using online markup validator like validator.w3.org. These validators will help you identify the mistakes that you made, missing attributes and even why you should not wrap block elements by inline elements.

Selecting a web report template in HTML is vital. Templates provide structure, style, and layout. You can find them online or create your own. Key aspects include clear design, responsiveness for various devices, and logical information flow. Customize the template to match your branding and specific needs. Prioritise user-friendliness and accessibility, ensuring compatibility with screen readers. Consistency in design is crucial for a professional look. Test it with your content, especially data tables, charts, and images. Verify licensing and credibility if using an online source. A well-chosen template lays the foundation for an effective web report.

Within the tags, add the section. Here, you can specify the title of your report by adding the tag. You can also link external stylesheets, JavaScript files, or any other resources needed for your report.

It depends on the requirements while creating reports generally we create html tables for that in some cases where we need to generate as pdf e.g. for payslips we have to use print css aswell for reports in some scenarios we use jquery plugins for generating the tables in export for csv or pdf so make sure keep your reports structure accordingly

CSS Grid Layout Module is an excellent choice for creating web-based reports because it provides precise control over layout, responsiveness, alignment, and spacing. CSS Grid's Grid Template Area is a pivotal feature for crafting web-based reports. It offers meticulous layout control by enabling you to define named areas within the grid. This precise positioning of report elements enhances readability and maintainability. By assigning names to areas, you simplify your code, making it more reusable across different report sections. This promotes design consistency and ensures accessibility on various devices. With Grid Template Area, you can effortlessly create professional, user-friendly reports, accommodating different content and layouts.

Creating web-based reports in HTML involves structuring content logically with HTML elements, styling using CSS, and optimizing for accessibility. Start with HTML structure, headings, paragraphs, and tables for organization. Apply CSS for visuals and responsiveness. Include images, multimedia, and links for interactivity. Ensure accessibility with semantic HTML, keyboard navigation, and meaningful alt text. Test across browsers and devices. And lastly, offer download options. These steps result in informative, visually pleasing, and accessible reports for online distribution.

How to Create Web-Based Reports with HTML

1 Choose a report template

The first step to create a web-based report with HTML is to choose a report template that suits your needs and goals. A report template is a pre-designed HTML document that provides the structure, layout, and style for your report. You can use a report template from an online source, such as HTML5 UP or W3Schools, or create your own from scratch. A report template should have a clear and consistent design, a responsive layout, and a logical flow of information.

Add your perspective

Samip Shrestha

Javascript Developer
Report contribution
I would always recommend to build HTML templates from scratch. But yeah if you are a beginner you can always follow tutorials and get some idea from online source. In order to have strong base of html first have a good knowledge of block and inline elements, when to use HTML semantic tag (like header, footer), what tags to use for lists, self closing tags and so on. Then always try to validate your HTML template using online markup validator like validator.w3.org. These validators will help you identify the mistakes that you made, missing attributes and even why you should not wrap block elements by inline elements.

Like
Denison Luz

Senior Software Engineer | Former Director of Quality Engineering | Building Scalable and High-Quality Solutions @ EHAB | Trilingual English-Portuguese-Spanish
Report contribution
Selecting a web report template in HTML is vital. Templates provide structure, style, and layout. You can find them online or create your own. Key aspects include clear design, responsiveness for various devices, and logical information flow. Customize the template to match your branding and specific needs. Prioritise user-friendliness and accessibility, ensuring compatibility with screen readers. Consistency in design is crucial for a professional look. Test it with your content, especially data tables, charts, and images. Verify licensing and credibility if using an online source. A well-chosen template lays the foundation for an effective web report.

Like
Farooq Shad

Principle UIUX Designer || Product Designer || HTML5/CSS3 || Bootstrap || Figma
Report contribution
It depends on the requirements while creating reports generally we create html tables for that in some cases where we need to generate as pdf e.g. for payslips we have to use print css aswell for reports in some scenarios we use jquery plugins for generating the tables in export for csv or pdf so make sure keep your reports structure accordingly

Like
Youssef AMEACHAQ

Engineering Manager
Report contribution
Begin by using a template with semantic tags, ensuring adherence to UI and accessibility guidelines. Keep the design clean and clear, and carefully select the appropriate font, font size, and alignment sizes.

Like
Mradul Sharma

Full Stack Developer | Expert in Laravel, React.js, and Node.js | Specialist in Custom Web Applications, API Integration, and Scalable Solutions | Passionate About Clean Code and Continuous Innovation
Report contribution
To create a web-based report using HTML, follow these steps: 1. **Set Up the Basic HTML Structure:** - Begin with a basic HTML template, including the `<!DOCTYPE html>` declaration, `<html>`, `<head>`, and `<body>` tags. 2. **Add Metadata and Title:** - Inside the `<head>`, add a title for the report and any meta tags for character encoding and viewport settings. 3. **Style Your Report:** - Use CSS either within a `<style>` tag in the `<head>` or link to an external stylesheet to define the visual presentation of your report (fonts, colors, spacing). 4. **Add Content:** - Populate your report with the necessary content, such as text, images, charts, and tables.

Like

Load more contributions

2 Add report content

The next step is to add the content of your report to the HTML document. You can use HTML tags and attributes to define the elements of your report, such as headings, paragraphs, lists, links, images, and so on. You can also use HTML tables or CSS grid to organize your data in rows and columns. You can use HTML forms or JavaScript to add interactivity and functionality to your report, such as filters, buttons, inputs, and outputs. You can use HTML canvas or SVG to create graphics and charts for your report, or embed external sources, such as Google Charts or Chart.js.

Add your perspective

Seva S.

Digital Marketing | Content Creation | Social Media Management |
Report contribution
Within the <html> tags, add the <head> section. Here, you can specify the title of your report by adding the <title> tag. You can also link external stylesheets, JavaScript files, or any other resources needed for your report.

Like
Bruce Pelser

--
Report contribution
I believe utilizing any HTML platform would be excellent for constructing web-based reports. Whether you're employing a page builder, working within WordPress, or developing it from the ground up, I recommend embedding a Looker Studio report into your page using an iFrame. This approach will help maintain data consistency, especially if you've already integrated it with your G4 Analytics. The Looker Studio also gives you free range to change formulas and add some back to G4 for example bounce rate.

Like
Shahed Mahmoudi

Senior Full Stack Developer | Bantleon Invest Kapitalverwaltungsgesellschaft mbh
Report contribution
Use HTML elements to add content to your report, such as headings (<h1>, <h2>, etc.), paragraphs (<p>), lists (<ul>, <ol>, <li>), tables (<table>, <tr>, <td>), and more. Organize your content logically to make it easy to read.

Like
Ghayoor Ul Baqir

Software Engineer | Expert in Building Scalable Web Applications
Report contribution
structure your content using HTML elements, apply CSS for styling, use JavaScript for dynamic data and interactivity, ensure responsiveness, and host the report online for accessibility.

Like
NAVEEN PILLAI

Mid-Sr. Front-end Developer at UniKwan Innovations HTML | CSS | React | Next.js | React Native | Angular | JavaScript | jQuery | Chart.js | WordPress | Tailwind | MUI | Bootstrap | Ajax | Website Optimization | GIT | VS
Report contribution
The best way to add report content especially if it includes graphs, pie charts, or circular percentage representation of data it would be better to go with a Chart.js plugin. If it involves a tabular representation of data then go with the table HTML tag.

Like

Load more contributions

3 Style report appearance

The third step is to style the appearance of your report with CSS. CSS is a stylesheet language that allows you to control the presentation of your HTML elements, such as colors, fonts, borders, margins, padding, backgrounds, and animations. You can use CSS selectors to target specific elements or groups of elements in your HTML document. You can use CSS properties and values to define the style rules for your elements. You can use CSS media queries to make your report responsive and adaptable to different screen sizes and devices.

Add your perspective

Deepu Balan

UI Architect @ UST | IIM Certified | Design Thinker | Servant Leader | Ex-Envestnet | Geek
Report contribution
CSS Grid Layout Module is an excellent choice for creating web-based reports because it provides precise control over layout, responsiveness, alignment, and spacing. CSS Grid's Grid Template Area is a pivotal feature for crafting web-based reports. It offers meticulous layout control by enabling you to define named areas within the grid. This precise positioning of report elements enhances readability and maintainability. By assigning names to areas, you simplify your code, making it more reusable across different report sections. This promotes design consistency and ensures accessibility on various devices. With Grid Template Area, you can effortlessly create professional, user-friendly reports, accommodating different content and layouts.

Like
Matheus Marrane

Senior Software Engineer | Full-Stack Development, AI Integration
Report contribution
Styling isn't just about making your report attractive; it's about functionality. A well-styled report aids in data comprehension. Use color schemes and fonts consistently. Limit the number of fonts to maintain a professional appearance. Responsive design is essential, ensuring your report is legible and usable across devices, from desktops to smartphones.

Like
Arun Kumar

People & Client Management | Team Leadership | Marketing Automation (SFMC, Marketo, Pardot) | AI Enthusiast
Report contribution
This is a very important step as aesthetics in web-based reports are crucial because they significantly impact the user experience. A well-designed report, with carefully chosen colors, fonts, and layouts, can convey information more effectively, making it easier for users to understand and interpret the content. Moreover, a visually pleasing report can establish credibility and professionalism, leaving a positive impression on the audience.

Like
NAVEEN PILLAI

Mid-Sr. Front-end Developer at UniKwan Innovations HTML | CSS | React | Next.js | React Native | Angular | JavaScript | jQuery | Chart.js | WordPress | Tailwind | MUI | Bootstrap | Ajax | Website Optimization | GIT | VS
Report contribution
When it comes to styling the page we can go with CSS or Bootstrap or MUI with CSS it is manual and with the rest of the two, it is more of adding the classes or components which is already designed. Responsive is the key to styling the page so that it can viewed on any size of screen.

Like
Artem Domalevskyi

Tech Lead at SmartIT - Smart Innovative Technologies
Report contribution
On the internet you can find different libraries(frameworks) which follow all best practices with styling and interactive components. One of such frameworks is Bootstrap which has a lot of different possibilities for styling and is powered by JavaScript. It is well documented and easy to use.

Like

Load more contributions

4 Validate report code

The fourth step is to validate your report code to ensure that it follows the HTML and CSS standards and syntax. Validating your code can help you avoid errors, bugs, and compatibility issues in your report. You can use online tools, such as the W3C Markup Validation Service or the W3C CSS Validation Service, to check your code for errors and warnings. You can also use code editors, such as Visual Studio Code or Sublime Text, to format, indent, and highlight your code for readability and clarity.

Add your perspective

Mohammad Hasan Hosseini

Technical Lead | .Net Developer | .Net Enthusiast
Report contribution
HTML5 code validation is a crucial process that guarantees your HTML documents meet the official standards and specifications set by W3C. Proper validation ensures that your code follows the best practices and guidelines recommended by the W3C, which helps to prevent potential errors and inconsistencies. Additionally, valid HTML5 code can enhance your website's search engine optimization (SEO) and make it easier for search engines to crawl and index your content. In summary, HTML5 validation is a vital step in creating high-quality websites that provide a seamless user experience across different platforms and devices.

Like
Jacob Dozier

Web Developer with AEM expertise working in Agile teams
Report contribution
Validating your code to be syntactically correct is obviously vital. In the last half decade I’ve never encountered anyone using plaintext editors to write code. Everyone uses IDE’s which validate your code as you write it.

Like
NAVEEN PILLAI

Mid-Sr. Front-end Developer at UniKwan Innovations HTML | CSS | React | Next.js | React Native | Angular | JavaScript | jQuery | Chart.js | WordPress | Tailwind | MUI | Bootstrap | Ajax | Website Optimization | GIT | VS
Report contribution
Writing the code according to the standards and structuring the whole project in a systematic way makes the whole process easy. Include all the necessary things that have to be present and also remove all the unused codes. Add comments wherever necessary if not everywhere. Validating the code that is written in order to improve is the most important aspect. If it's possible to do with dynamic logic then go for it else stick with static data.

Like
Oybek K.

🏢 CTO by day | 🥷 Full Stack by night (18 yrs exp) | We're hiring! 🚀
Report contribution
For someone who is trying to build html reports I think tailwind would be a great choice for the styling. Since it can be edited and optimized easily

Like
Artur Modesto

Senior Software Engineer
Report contribution
When it comes to validating the report code, I'm all about that 'no surprises' life. I lean on W3C's tools to catch any sneaky errors before they become a headache. But hey, I also give a shoutout to my code editor, usually VS Code, for making my life easier with its built-in features. It's like a spellcheck for coders, man. So, always validate; better safe than sorry!

Like

Load more contributions

5 Test report functionality

The fifth step is to test your report functionality to ensure that it works as expected and meets your requirements. Testing your report functionality can help you evaluate the usability, performance, and accessibility of your report. You can use different browsers, devices, and screen resolutions to test how your report looks and behaves in various scenarios. You can also use online tools, such as Google Lighthouse or WebAIM Wave, to test the speed, security, and accessibility of your report.

Add your perspective

Sergio Santana

Senior Fullstack Developer | Master's in Information Technology | Software Developer Educator (ENFJ) | STR +2 | DEX +4 | CON +5 | WIS +1 | INT +1 | CHA 0 | Lawful Good
Report contribution
A few years ago i did an excellent report for web browsing, when tested it had issues on the mobile design, as a personal advise always ask if web and mobile will be involved at the same webpage and address, try to use frameworks to ease this labor such as Bootstrap, Django, Laravel, Angular and .NET, remember that if none of these fit to your needs you can always try to search for one that can help you the best.

Like
Marvin dos Santos

Full Stack Engineer | PHP | MySQL | Laravel | Git | Javascript | API REST | Docker | HTML | CSS | Jquery | Postgres | OOP | Bootstrap | Postgres | Vue.js | Typescript | Github | Apache | PL/SQL | Angular | Fullstack
(edited)
Report contribution
I was contributing to a project. I created a layout no showed the funtionalities of the part of system. I realised that I needed to make it to show in a Iphone. But it was not responsive. So, I wrote a code using bootstrap and it fitted in the screen of cellphone. It was nice. To test the report in differents devices is a good way to achieve the purpose of client.

Like
Artur Modesto

Senior Software Engineer
Report contribution
After I get the report looking good with HTML and CSS, I always give it a spin to make sure everything's running smooth. I'm not just talking about how it looks, but also how it performs. I pull it up on different devices and browsers to see if anything breaks. Tools like Google Lighthouse are my go-to for checking speed, security, and accessibility. If something's off, I'm back to the drawing board. But when it's right, you just know.

Like

6 Publish report online

The final step is to publish your report online so that you can share it with your audience and stakeholders. Publishing your report online requires that you have a web server, a domain name, and a web hosting service. You can use online platforms, such as GitHub Pages or Netlify, to host your report for free or for a low cost. You can also use FTP clients, such as FileZilla or Cyberduck, to upload your report files to your web server. Once you publish your report online, you can update it anytime by modifying your HTML and CSS files and uploading them again.

Add your perspective

Joffrey ROMERO

DevOps
(edited)
Report contribution
Typically, web hosts offer standard SFTP access, which many opt to navigate using familiar tools like Winscp. However, a more innovative approach would be to utilize the command line. With 'curl', one can adeptly transfer files to a remote platform using commands such as `curl "sftp://x.y.z/~/www/index.html" --upload-file "index.html"`. Such a method not only showcases lateral thinking but also paves the way for easier automation.

Like
Rajesh Kumar

Full Stack Developer @ Pegasystems | Ex - VirtusaPolaris | Docker, AWS, ReactJS & NodeJS
Report contribution
Creating a web-based HTML report involves writing HTML and possibly incorporating CSS and JavaScript for styling and interactivity web pages and it must be optimised in size and minimal requests for the server. It will help the page to load in any network and any device. PS. Add the new line, tabs or space if required.

Like
Darcee Thomason

Software Developer @C Infinity Solutions | Java, JavaScript, React, AWS Services
Report contribution
Access control is an important consideration that should be included here. Step 1 should actually be "Identify the information that is shared, if any of your information is sensitive be sure to consider how you will be securing your information".

Like

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

Add your perspective

Mildred Makori

CMS Web Designer expert | Front-end Engineer | Technical Writer
Report contribution
Creating web-based reports in HTML involves structuring content logically with HTML elements, styling using CSS, and optimizing for accessibility. Start with HTML structure, headings, paragraphs, and tables for organization. Apply CSS for visuals and responsiveness. Include images, multimedia, and links for interactivity. Ensure accessibility with semantic HTML, keyboard navigation, and meaningful alt text. Test across browsers and devices. And lastly, offer download options. These steps result in informative, visually pleasing, and accessible reports for online distribution.

Like
John Crafton III

Professional 10x S-Tier Goblin | Backend, DevOps, Quality, Automation, AI/ML, Exorcism | Versatile Engineering/Comedy Leader with approximately 9.46e+8 seconds of experience
Report contribution
K.I.S.S. applies here; maybe double. Don't overcomplicate it. If you're rendering tabular data, use tables. If you need a graph, use raw values and an SVG plot (or similar JS-based tooling). APIs in this work should provide data, not functionality: if you need to compute on the client, you're doing it wrong.

Like
Sanaz Bashiri

Sr. E-Commerce Manager @ KoRo | Data-Driven Growth & UX Optimization
Report contribution
Add more features that improve the UX: - Filtering: For reports with large datasets, consider adding sorting and filtering using JavaScript libraries or even simple HTML form elements. - Export Options: Allow users to download the report data in different formats (CSV, PDF, Excel) for offline use or further analysis with other tools. - Search Functionality: For lengthy reports, implement a search bar to allow users to quickly find specific information within the report content. This can be achieved with basic JavaScript or by integrating a search library. - Accessibility: Ensure your report is accessible to everyone! Use semantic HTML tags and provide alt for images to improve a11y for users with disabilities.

Like

Load more contributions

How can you create web-based reports with HTML?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Choose a report template

2 Add report content

3 Style report appearance

4 Validate report code

5 Test report functionality

6 Publish report online

7 Here’s what else to consider

HTML

Rate this article

Thanks for your feedback

More articles on HTML

More relevant reading