All of my browser-based random creations have just been updated to conform to my XHTML 1.0 document template. I have also created a great looking stylesheet, exploiting the proper XHTML markup, to create a more professional sleek appearance. A great CSS effect I have created is table emulation using definition lists: by applying a float: left; CSS property to <dt> aligned easy-to-use forms can be created. A List Apart has an informative article, Prettier Accessible Forms by Nick Rigby, on this subject; the final example is outstanding and forms the basis for my ideal form design. My method is far simpler — of course — but may not scale well when used in conjunction with other, more complex, form designs.
Gradient backgrounds are an easy way to enhance the appearance of a document. These are simply 1 px wide graphics repeated horizontally throughout an element. I have used three different gradient backgrounds — for input elements, fieldsets and headers — in the new stylesheet, dramatically improving the look and feel of my random creations.
Other recent improvements include updating my quadratic equation tutorial and adapting a JavaScript compressor that reduces bandwidth usage by removing useless material from JavaScript documents (this is yet to be released on my homepage). I will eventually compress all my JavaScripts mainly to increase loadings times but also to stop people nabbing them so easily (obfuscation). My guestbook now includes more advanced and obtrusive word filters to prevent individuals — such as my immature school friends, yes Lewis Elkin I know it was you — or bots posting rude comments.
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