How to Build Modern Websites from Scratch

Learn how to build modern websites from scratch with this complete beginner’s guide tailored for Indian web developers. Covers HTML, CSS, JavaScript, frameworks, SEO tips, and hosting solutions.

Introduction

In today’s digital-first world, having a website is no longer optional—it's essential. Whether you're a student, a small business owner, a freelancer, or a startup founder in India, knowing how to build a modern website from scratch can be a game changer. Fortunately, with the right tools, technologies, and guidance, creating a modern, responsive, and professional-looking website is entirely achievable—even without prior coding experience.

This blog post will take you step-by-step through the entire process of building a modern website from scratch using core web technologies like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, as well as tips for hosting, performance, SEO, and more.

Step 1: Understand the Purpose of Your Website

Before you write a single line of code, define what your website is about.

• Portfolio Website: Showcase your work and skills.
• Business Website: Highlight services, prices, and contact details.
• Blog or News Site: Share articles, thoughts, and updates.
• E-commerce Store: Sell products directly online.

Tip: For Indian businesses, ensure your content is bilingual if needed (e.g., English + Hindi/Telugu/Tamil) to reach local audiences.

Step 2: Learn the Essential Technologies

HTML (HyperText Markup Language)

CSS (Cascading Style Sheets)

JavaScript (JS)

Step 3: Choose the Right Tools & Editors

• Code Editor: VS Code
• Browser Tools: Chrome DevTools (F12)
• Version Control: Git + GitHub
• Design Inspiration: Figma, Canva

Step 4: Plan Your Website Layout and Content

Before designing, sketch out a wireframe—either on paper or digitally. Include:

• Navigation bar
• Hero section
• Services section
• Testimonials
• Footer

Bonus Tip: Add WhatsApp integration or payment options like UPI or Razorpay.

Step 5: Start Coding – Build Your Website Structure

Example Folder Structure:

Basic Homepage Example:

Step 6: Make It Responsive

Mobile responsiveness is crucial in India. Use media queries or CSS frameworks like Bootstrap.

Step 7: Add Interactivity with JavaScript

Step 8: Optimise for SEO and Speed

SEO is key for Google ranking—especially for Indian SMEs and freelancers.

• Use tags
• Compress images (WebP)
• Add alt tags and sitemaps

Free Tools:

Step 9: Hosting and Going Live

Hosting Provider	Type	Starting Price (INR)	Notes
Hostinger India	Shared	₹69/mo	Affordable for beginners
Bluehost India	WordPress	₹179/mo	Great for WordPress users
GitHub Pages	Free Static	₹0	Great for portfolios
Netlify	Free Static	₹0	Easy with GitHub integration

Step 10: Keep Learning and Updating

Stay updated with tools like React, Vue, Node.js, MongoDB, and APIs.

Top Indian YouTube Channels to Learn From:

• CodeWithHarry
• GeekyShows
• Thapa Technical
• WS Cube Tech

Final Thoughts

Building a modern website from scratch is a vital skill. Whether you're a student or entrepreneur in India, mastering web development opens doors to freelancing, digital businesses, and IT careers. Start small, stay consistent, and your skills will grow rapidly.