Email code is the simple set of instructions that makes your email work. Think of it like a recipe: it tells you exactly how to mix the parts together so the final dish looks and tastes right. Without the right code, even the best message might not display as it should. In this article, we'll cover the basics of email code and explain why it is the key to building good emails.

What Is Email Code?

Email code is the set of instructions written in HTML and CSS that tells an email how to look and behave. It makes sure that when your email is opened on a phone, tablet, or computer, it looks the way you planned. Unlike websites, email code needs to be simple so it works smoothly on many different email programs.

Parts of an Email Code

Think of email code as a blueprint for your email. It has three main parts:

  • Header:
    This is where you put important information like the subject line, preheader text, and links to style rules. It helps set the tone before the email is even opened.

  • Body:
    This is the main area of your email. It holds the text, images, buttons, and links that your readers see. Often, the style rules (CSS) are written directly in the body to make sure the email looks good everywhere.

  • Footer:
    The footer wraps up your email. It usually includes your contact details, an unsubscribe link, and any legal information needed to keep your email professional.

Here’s a short sample of what email code might look like:

<!DOCTYPE html>
<html>
<head>
     <meta charset="UTF-8">
     <title>Simple Email</title>
   </head>
   <body>
     <table width="100%" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0">
       <tr>
         <td align="center">
           <table width="600" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0">
             <tr>
               <td align="center" style="padding: 20px; background-color: #f7f7f7;">
                 <h1>My Company</h1>
               </td>
             </tr>
             <tr>
               <td align="left" style="padding: 20px; background-color: #ffffff;">
                 <p>Hello there,</p>

                 <p>This is a simple email template. It uses basic
 HTML and inline CSS so it works well on many email programs.</p>
                 <p>Thanks,<br>Your Name</p>
               </td>
             </tr>
             <tr>
               <td align="center" style="padding: 20px; background-color: #f7f7f7;">
                 <p>123 Main Street, City</p>
                 <p><a href="mailto:[email protected]">[email protected]</a></p>
               </td>
             </tr>
           </table>
         </td>
       </tr>
     </table>
   </body>
 </html>

How Do You Code an Email?

At its core, you use HTML to create the structure and CSS to add style. However, email coding is a bit different from building a website because many email clients have limits. Here are a few ways to make your email coding easier:

  • Stick to Simple HTML:
    Use basic tags and inline CSS so that your email displays correctly on all email platforms.

  • Test Often:
    Before sending out your email, test it in different email programs and on different devices. This helps you catch any problems.

  • Use Pre-built Tools:
    Some tools can help you write email code without starting from scratch. They offer templates and simple tags that turn into complex HTML behind the scenes.

Tools That Can Help You Code Emails

There are special libraries and tools that can make email coding easier. Here are a couple worth knowing:

MJML

MJML is a tool that lets you write simple tags that are later converted into responsive HTML.
How to Use MJML:

  1. Install MJML: Use a package manager to install it.
  2. Write Your Code: Create a file with the extension .mjml and add your simple tags.
  3. Compile to HTML: Run a command to convert your MJML file into HTML.
  4. Customize as Needed: Edit the HTML to add any extra details.

AMP for Email

AMP for Email lets you add interactive features to your messages, like carousels or forms.
Getting Started:

  1. Include the AMP Script: Add the AMP script to your email’s header.
  2. Use AMP Tags: Write your email with special AMP tags to add interactive elements.
  3. Test on Supported Clients: Make sure your AMP email works where it is supported.

Other programming libraries such as smtplib for Python, Nodemailer for Node.js, and PHPMailer for PHP can help you send emails from your own programs. These libraries let you automate the sending process and integrate emails into your applications.

Best Practices for Email Coding

To create emails that look good and load fast, keep these tips in mind:

  1. Keep It Simple:
    Use basic HTML and inline CSS. This makes sure your email works well in different email apps.

  2. Make It Responsive:
    Design your email so that it adjusts to different screen sizes. Use fluid layouts and media queries if needed.

  3. Speed Matters:
    Keep your code clean and compress images. A fast-loading email is more likely to be read.

  4. Plan for Dark Mode:
    More people now use dark mode. Test your email in dark mode to ensure the colors and images still look good.

Advanced Tips

For those who want to take email coding further, consider these ideas:

  • Use Media Queries:
    This helps you set different styles for phones and desktops.

  • Add Interactive Elements:
    With AMP for Email, you can include interactive forms or slideshows that keep your readers engaged.

  • Focus on Accessibility:
    Write semantic HTML so that your email is accessible to everyone, including those who use screen readers.

  • Stay Updated:
    Email clients change over time. Keep an eye on new techniques and tools to keep your email designs fresh.

Conclusion

Coding an email is much like designing a small home. You start with a solid blueprint (your code), add style and functionality (with HTML and CSS), and then test it to make sure it works well for everyone. With the right tools and a few best practices, you can create emails that not only look good but also connect with your readers on any device.

It's also important to verify your email before sending or opening one. Read the ​