What is the purpose of the 'src' attribute in HTML?

 Theme: HTML  Role: Front End Developer  Function: Technology

  Interview Question for Front-End Developer:  See sample answers, motivations & red flags for this common interview question. About Front-End Developer: Creates the user interface and user experience of websites and applications. This role falls within the Technology function of a firm. See other interview questions & further information for this role here

 Sample Answer 


  Example response for question delving into HTML with the key points that need to be covered in an effective response. Customize this to your own experience with concrete examples and evidence

  •  The src attribute in HTML: The src attribute is used to specify the source URL of an external resource, such as an image, audio, video, or script file
  •  Loading external resources: The src attribute is essential for loading external resources into an HTML document
  •  Images: For images, the src attribute specifies the URL of the image file to be displayed on the webpage
  •  Audio & video: For audio and video elements, the src attribute specifies the URL of the media file to be played
  •  Script files: For script elements, the src attribute specifies the URL of the JavaScript file to be executed
  •  Fallback content: The src attribute allows providing fallback content for browsers that do not support the specified resource
  •  Responsive design: The src attribute can be used in conjunction with media queries to load different resources based on the device's screen size or resolution
  •  Optimization & performance: Using the src attribute correctly can help optimize the loading time and performance of a webpage
  •  Security considerations: When using the src attribute, it is important to ensure that the source URL is trusted and does not pose any security risks
  •  Relative & absolute URLs: The src attribute can accept both relative and absolute URLs, allowing flexibility in specifying the resource location

 Underlying Motivations 


  What the Interviewer is trying to find out about you and your experiences through this question

  •  Technical knowledge: Assessing understanding of HTML and front-end development
  •  Problem-solving skills: Evaluating ability to use src attribute effectively in web development
  •  Attention to detail: Checking if candidate understands the importance of correctly specifying source files

 Potential Minefields 


  How to avoid some common minefields when answering this question in order to not raise any red flags

  •  Lack of understanding: Not being able to explain the purpose of the src attribute accurately or confidently
  •  Confusion with other attributes: Mixing up the src attribute with other attributes like href or data-src
  •  Limited knowledge: Not being aware of the different use cases and scenarios where the src attribute is commonly used
  •  Inability to provide examples: Failing to provide specific examples of how the src attribute is used in real-world HTML elements

 Related

  Other questions asked for the Front-End Developer in Technology function. View details for the Front-End Developer here