What is Above the Fold?

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So, have you heard of this phrase? Do you know what it means and how it relates to your site?

The concept of above the fold goes back centuries, to the beginnings of the printing press. Newspapers, due to the way they were printed on large sheets of paper, were folded once they hit the news-stands. This led to only the top half of the paper being visible to the passer-by.

The newspaper industry quickly worked out that to attract an audience, they must present attention-grabbing headlines, content, and imagery on the top half of the page. This basic principle remains the same for digital content.

Of course, websites do not have a physical fold like newspapers; the fold in this regard relates to the scrollbar.

Anything that isn’t visible immediately, which requires scrolling, is considered below the fold.

Unfortunately, people have a short atention span, and if they need to scroll to check what your site is about, they may just click away and leave your site immediately.

So, if you have a huge header image, or the only thing that can be seen is a Google ad taking up the the top of the screen, this is not good news. This is particularly important when viewing on mobile. You only have a few seconds to convince your reader that it is worth scrolling.

Take a look at your site and check if you have ads or other elements which are pushing your main content further down the page.

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Recent Comments

24

Great post Diane,

Evoked a thought in me it did, Do you want to know the thought?

Well, I'm going to explain anyway ; )
As you're most likely aware (from reading your post), there are many "formulas" out there on how to best structure your posts.

Firstly, you've got to grab peoples attention.

Now, this is the thought that evoked what I'm about to divulge. (you still there ; )

The attention "idea" is so profound it's usually overlooked as being too simple. But if you were to realise we (as humans) are continually seeking distraction, (and we can't stop it).

So if someone with specific skills was able to steer that flaw?
What do you think?

Cordially
Dedo

P.S I know you may think I've just reiterated what you said. But look deeper. The apparent "choice" we think we have isn't actually there. Try and NOT be distracted. Hope this helps,..

Great advice, thank you, Diane

A good, simple explanation Diane. Jim

Just to add another thought,

Photos should be placed so they land on one page and are not split on two pages!

Skip lines or adjust print so that pix are on one page.

Marion

Great advice for newbies, Diane.

Marion

A good point,well made. Thanks for sharing.
Robert

Very interesting and relevant point, Diane! Thanks!

Jeff

In my estimation many little details make an excellent website and this is one the many. This would show up on how long people stay on your site. Good job Diane.

Thanks for sharing. Now I have a good image to keep in mind.

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