Most anyone can learn to create a basic web page using HTML. However, a lot of people who learn how to create webpages only know the basics or the old ways of doing things; they don't know about the latest web standards. Although writing code using old techniques does still work, there are many good reasons why web standards should be followed, and that goes beyond being prepared for old techniques to stop working in newer browsers. In addition to being future proof, you are doing yourself a lot of favors by learning and keeping up with the latest developments in web standards. For example:
It allows you to write more efficient code. Not only are you able to reuse code you've already written, but you are also doing your visitors a favor. By separating structure from style by placing all stylistic CSS elements in an external style sheet, you are able to make your pages load more quickly. Putting the same style elements on every single HTML file means that the browser has to read it every time it loads a new page. On the other hand, using an external style sheet allows browsers to cache the file and save users' bandwidth. The less time it takes to load a page, the more likely your visitors will want to stick around and browse.
Changes and updates are easy when you keep your pages written in plain XHTML and use an external style sheet. Instead of taking hours trying to find all the style elements in every single page - even with copying and pasting - you can make a change in one place and have it rendered throughout the entire site. Structural changes are easier to make too without all those style elements cluttering the document.
Universal usability is ensured. This means that alternate content is provided for people without sight or hearing, as well as people with different input devices. For example, the blind can access information on a web site using a screen reader, but cannot see any images accompanying the text. In this case, alternate text is provided that describes the image. Elements on the page should be properly marked up too. For instance, by placing more than two items, such as navigation links, into a list, then it will make it easier for people with disabilities to navigate.
Crossplatform and device compatibility should also be kept in mind. When following web standards, you make sure that all your bases are covered; your web site can be accessed from any browser and any device. This is where using an external style sheet also comes into play. When accessing sites from mobile browsers, the critical information (the structure and content) is rendered while the stylistic information can be adjusted to fit the screen size and browser. Being compatible with many platforms and devices will also get you higher rankings and visibility on search engines like Google; this is called search engine optimization (SEO).
With all these benefits, it's hard to see why anyone wouldn't want to learn and follow the latest web standards. It may take some time to get in the habit of using them, but it'll be well worth it in the future.
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