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What is Web Slide Desk in HTML5 ?

WebSlides is an open-source library used to create presentations, landings, tables of content, longforms, and portfolios with basic knowledge of HTML and CSS.  You might wonder about the need and importance of WebSlides when we have plenty of stunning third-party applications for this purpose. We can easily infer the indispensable importance of showcasing our skills, ideas, and work across the internet. What if we can design our desired showcasing with the use of a compact, beautiful, and easy-to-use library. Easy design, easiest sharing, and no compatibility issues. WebSlides do this for us! 

Approach: We can create WebSlides designs from scratch or customize demos. To explore WebSlides we will create a few slides from scratch. First, we will design two slides individually. Then we will design a third one and combine all of them to make a Web Slide Desk.

Let’s first explore some features of WebSlides.

1. Background: We can add different backgrounds to slides:  

• Add class bg-primary in section to set #44d as background.
• Add class bg-black-blue in section to set #123 as background.
• Add class bg-gradient-v in section to set vertical gradient background.
• Add class bg-gradient-r in section to set radial gradient background.
• Add class bg-gradient-h in section to set horizontal gradient background.
• Add class dark for transparent background with low opacity and class light for relatively high opacity in span tag for background.
• You can also use video as background by specifying class background-video in the video tag.

And a lot more colors can be used as background by specifying the proper class in the section of the slide. We can place background at different positions on screen by use of appropriate class in span tag for background. Some of the classes are:

• background-center
• background-center-top
• background-center-bottom
• background-left
• background-right-top

2. Wrap: Use a div with the class wrap to layout content and classes work properly. Place content inside this div.

3. Alignment: You can align your content at different locations. you can align it left, right, or centralize it. Also, you can place it at the top or bottom of the slide. Some classes are:

• content-left
• content-right
• content-center
• slide-bottom

You can use a combination of these classes also.

4. Animations: You can Use different Animations in your content. Just use the appropriate class with the content you want to animate. Classes are:

• slideInLeft
• slideInRight

5. Typography: You can present your content with the use of semantic typography classes. These all classes use Roboto font that’s why we linked to it in the head tag. The text-subtitle class turns text into capital caps. Some typography classes are following:

• text-landing
• text-shadow
• text-context
• text-pull-left
• text-pull-right

Steps to design slides:

• Download WebSlides.
• Create a HTML file “yourFileName.html” in root.
• Start coding, add the following code to HTML file.

Here we are linking to Roboto google font and CSS used throughout the slides. Before jumping into the code don’t forget to go through the following key takeaways

• create an article tag with the id “webslides”.
• Inside this article, each parent section indicates an individual slide.
• HTML class attribute is used to apply desired changes.

Example 1: In this example, we will be going to use:

• Article tag with id webslides. This tag works as a container for all slides.
• Section tag. This tag indicates an individual slide.
• Span tag. This tag sets background for the slide.
• Div tag with class wrap. This tag act as wrapper for all the div tags that layouts and manages whole content.
• content-center centralizes whole content of the div.
• ZoomIn creates a zoom in animation for content of the div.
• Div tag with class text-subtitle. This class converts the text to capital caps.

you’re done with the first slide.

Example 2: Here we are using,

• Section tag with class bg-white. This tag indicates an individual slide with white background.
• card-50 creates a card of size 50.
• bg-gray sets the background color of card as gray.
• This div contains a figure tag and another div tag.
• Figure tag contains an image for left side of card.
• Div tag with class flex-content. This tag contains content for right side of card.
• Flex-content class layouts the content relatively.

Web Slide Desk

Web Slide Desk is a combination of Web Slides. Let’s create one new slide and then make a deck. Here, we will use the first and second slide, create a new slide and combine all of them to create a Web Slide Desk.

In third slide, we are using,

• Section with class bg-gradient-r. This tag sets a radial gradient background for the slide.
• Div with content-center. This tag centralize the content of  the div.
• P tags with classes text-landing and text-shadow. These tags applies the specified effects to text.
• Script tag to Link Web Slides JS.
• script tag to initialize webslides.

It is not the whole story! You can do a lot more with WebSlides. Head towards the web slides folder you downloaded. Explore more classes, components, and templates. The ball is in your court now!

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Slider Revolution

More than just a WordPress slider

What is a Slider? Exploring This Element of Website Design

Uncover the magic of sliders: interactive elements that transform websites & apps. from captivating image galleries to engaging content carousels, learn how sliders enhance user experiences with their dynamic, versatile, and user-friendly nature..

Sliders, we see them everywhere in the digital universe. They’re part of the fabric that makes up the vast world of web design. But what is a slider ?

A slider, my friend, is a nifty little web design technique that lets us shuffle through various pieces of content—images, videos, text—you name it! Think of it like a digital billboard, constantly changing to show you something new, something exciting.

Now, we’re not just talking about the slider you might see on a form that lets you pick a number from 1 to 10. No, we’re delving into something much more visually appealing and interactive. Sliders in web design have a way of making static, lifeless pages feel alive. They’re a cool tool that brings motion to a medium that was once all about stillness.

Why Do We Care About Sliders?

I’ve heard you asking—why should I care about sliders? Well, let me put it this way. Imagine walking into a store, and everything you need is placed right in front of you, changing periodically.

Wouldn’t it make your shopping experience much easier and more enjoyable? That’s the same vibe sliders bring to a website. They help us navigate the sea of content with ease, bringing what’s important right to us.

Just as sliders have evolved from simple image carousels to sophisticated elements including video and text, they’ve also made their way into various roles in web design.

The Evolution of Sliders

Let’s hop onto our time machine and trace the lineage of sliders. The early internet era was devoid of any moving elements. Websites were bland and static. Then sliders came along and shook things up.

They started as simple image carousels, rotating pictures like a revolving door. As technology progressed, sliders got smarter and more creative, incorporating videos, text, interactive elements—you name it! And their purpose evolved too, from simply showing off beautiful pictures to promoting products, organizing content, and guiding users around the site.

That’s the beauty of sliders —they’re constantly changing, adapting, and finding new ways to make our online experiences richer and more enjoyable. And that’s exactly why sliders matter so much in the realm of web design.

In the coming sections, we’ll delve into the inner workings of sliders, discuss their utility in web design, and look at how to design them effectively. You’ll also get to hear why I believe Slider Revolution is the go-to plugin for creating fabulous sliders.

The Ins and Outs of a Slider

Components that make a slider, a slider.

A typical slider consists of a few key elements . First up, there are the slides themselves, whether they’re images, videos, or text.

Next, we’ve got the navigation controls. These can be arrows on the sides for moving back and forth between slides or dots at the bottom indicating the number of slides and allowing users to jump to a specific slide.

Lastly, we’ve got the optional extras. These could be text overlays giving context to an image, call-to-action buttons encouraging user engagement, or even interactive elements that respond to user actions.

The Many Faces of Sliders

Now, what is a slider without its variety? Just like our favorite Netflix shows, sliders come in many flavors—image sliders, video sliders, text sliders, and more.

And just like choosing the right genre for your next binge-watching session, picking the right type of slider is crucial for your website.

• Image sliders are like action flicks—fast, flashy, and visually impressive. They’re perfect for showcasing stunning photographs or eye-catching graphics.
• Video sliders ? They’re the documentaries—deep, immersive, and full of rich content. They can be used to present detailed information in an engaging way.
• And text sliders , well, they’re the thought-provoking dramas—simple, elegant, and highly effective at delivering a message.

Interacting with Sliders

Hover effects, clickable buttons, drag controls—these elements transform a slider from a static presentation into an interactive experience.

They make a slider more than just a tool for displaying content—they make it a space for user engagement. They turn the question from “What is a slider?” to “What can a slider do?”

Understanding the anatomy of a slider is the first step toward appreciating its beauty.

The variety of sliders and their interactive elements make them a dynamic tool in web design, one that can adapt to fit any context or purpose.

The Superpowers of Sliders in Web Design

Jazzing up the visuals.

Let’s face it, no one likes a dull party. The same goes for websites. That’s where sliders can lend a helping hand. They’re like the life of the party, adding a splash of color and movement to your website.

Imagine a beautiful image slider showcasing your latest photo shoots, or a video slider playing clips of your products in action. You can feel the visual appeal going up a notch, right? Sliders can take your website from “meh” to “wow” in no time.

The Salesperson You Never Knew You Needed

Ever tried selling a product or service without actually saying a word? That’s another superpower of sliders. They can turn your website into a silent yet highly effective salesperson.

A product slider can showcase your items in their best light, complete with beautiful images, snappy descriptions, and a shiny “Buy Now” button. It’s like having a salesperson who never sleeps, always ready to present your offerings to the world.

Navigation Made Easy

If your website is a vast ocean of content, sliders can be the compass that guides your visitors. No one likes feeling lost, especially online. With sliders, you can guide your users to the most important parts of your site effortlessly.

Imagine a news website with a slider highlighting the latest stories, or an e-commerce site with a slider showcasing the top deals. With a well-designed slider, you can ensure that your visitors always find their way to the good stuff.

The Storyteller

Every picture tells a story, and so does every slider. One of the most captivating uses of sliders is in storytelling and content organization.

Imagine you’re a travel blogger sharing your latest adventure. You could use a slider to walk your visitors through your journey, one photo at a time. Or suppose you’re a fashion retailer. You could use a slider to organize your items by category, making it easy for your customers to find what they’re looking for.

What is a slider , if not a powerful tool for shaping and delivering your website’s narrative?

The utility of sliders in web design is immense. They can enhance the visual appeal, promote products and services, improve navigation, and tell a story.

Crafting a Slider: The Golden Rules

Keep it simple, silly.

When it comes to slider design, one of the golden rules is to keep things simple. Imagine you’re at a buffet. There’s a lot of food, but you can only eat so much. The same goes for sliders. They can hold a lot of content, but you don’t want to overwhelm your visitors.

Remember, the key is not to cram in as much as you can. Rather, it’s to display just enough to catch the eye and pique interest. That’s the whole philosophy behind “what is a slider”. It’s not about quantity, but quality.

Lights, Camera, Action!

Picking the right images or videos for your slider is like casting the perfect actors for a movie. You want visuals that not only look good but also tell your story effectively.

Select images that resonate with your brand and message. Optimize them to ensure they load fast and look sharp. For videos, keep them short, engaging, and relevant. Remember, you’re not just creating a slider, you’re directing a visual experience.

The Perfect Balance: Static and Dynamic

Think of your favorite action movie. It’s not all car chases and explosions, right? There are quieter, slower moments too. That’s what makes it enjoyable.

A good slider design follows the same principle. It’s a mix of dynamic, moving elements (the slides themselves) and static elements (the navigation controls, text overlays, etc.). It’s this balance that keeps users engaged without overwhelming them.

One Size Doesn’t Fit All: Responsive Design

In today’s world, people browse the web on all sorts of devices—from big-screen TVs to pocket-sized smartphones. This makes responsive design a must for sliders.

A responsive slider scales and adjusts according to the screen size, ensuring a seamless experience for all users. It’s like having a personal assistant that rearranges your desk to suit your needs, no matter how often they change.

Common Pitfalls in Slider Design and How to Sidestep Them

You know what’s irksome? Slides that change too fast . It’s like a movie fast-forwarding on its own. There you are, trying to absorb an interesting piece of info, when – BAM! – you’re yanked away to the next slide. No cool, right?

The idea behind sliders, or carousels – is not just to slap some images and call it a day. They’re there to engage visitors, to get them to interact with your website. So, instead of forcing slides to change, consider giving your audience the control. Add clear, easy-to-use navigation buttons. And if you must use auto-advancing slides, at least give users the option to pause. It’s the little things that make a big difference.

Ensuring User-Friendly Controls

Another common mishap? Hidden or complex navigation controls . Imagine being handed a book with no page numbers. Frustrating, isn’t it? Sliders without clear navigation controls are no different.

Remember, not everyone visiting your website is a tech whiz. Some people are just looking to find what they need and move on. Don’t make it harder for them. Make your slider controls visible and intuitive. Arrows, dots, numbers – whatever floats your boat, as long as it’s easy to understand. And hey, responsive controls that work smoothly across devices? That’s the cherry on top!

Balancing Content and Whitespace

Have you ever come across a slider that’s just too…busy? Like a cluttered room, it can be a nightmare. Overloading your slider with text, images, or even call-to-action buttons can overwhelm your visitors. It’s like trying to listen to a symphony orchestra in the middle of a bustling city market.

So, how to avoid this? Whitespace is your best friend . Whitespace doesn’t mean your slider needs to be empty. It’s about creating balance and making your content breathe. Choose your images wisely, keep your text concise, and don’t cram in too many call-to-action buttons. Remember, simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.

Why Slider Revolution is Your Go-To Slider Plugin

What’s the secret weapon of a web designer, you ask? It’s a robust, versatile tool that can take the user experience to new heights.

Yes, I’m talking about Slider Revolution . It’s more than just a slider plugin. It’s like that multi-purpose Swiss Army knife you wish you had on a camping trip.

So, what is a slider in this context? Think of it as a dynamic billboard on your website. With Slider Revolution, this billboard doesn’t just have to show static images. It can do so much more – display videos, highlight products, tell a story – all in a seamless, interactive fashion.

Features that Set Slider Revolution Apart

You may ask – why Slider Revolution? Well, it’s pretty simple. It’s packed to the brim with killer features.

First off, it’s as versatile as they come. Need an image slider for your homepage? No sweat. Want a carousel of customer testimonials ? You got it. How about a full-screen video presentation? Done deal.

Next, there’s the ease of use . You don’t have to be a code wizard to create something stunning. The intuitive drag-and-drop interface makes designing your perfect slider as easy as pie.

But it doesn’t stop there. Slider Revolution boasts a library of ready-to-use templates. So if you’re ever short on time or inspiration, just pick a template, tweak it to your liking, and voila – your impressive slider is ready to rock!

Going Beyond the Ordinary: Benefits of Using Slider Revolution

Okay, let’s break it down. Why should you choose Slider Revolution over any other slider plugin?

Firstly, it puts you in the driver’s seat. With its easy-to-use interface and customization options, you’re not just a designer – you’re the master of your creative universe.

Secondly, it’s all about performance . No more worrying about slow-loading sliders. Slider Revolution ensures your sliders are not just pretty, but speedy too.

Last, but certainly not least, it’s responsive . Whether your visitors are on a desktop, a tablet, or a phone, your sliders will look and work just as beautifully. Now, how cool is that?

Testimonials from Slider Revolution Users

But don’t just take my word for it. There are countless users who’ve seen their websites transform thanks to Slider Revolution.

Take Laura, for instance, a small business owner who saw her online sales shoot up after she implemented a product showcase slider on her website. Or Mike, a blogger who noticed his reader engagement skyrocket after he started using interactive sliders to highlight his latest posts.

There’s a reason Slider Revolution has become the go-to for web designers and website owners. It’s not just about what is a slider – it’s about how much more a slider can be.

FAQ on What is a Slider

What’s a slider in web design.

In the realm of web design, a slider’s just a dynamic sequence of images or text chunks. You can think of it as a slideshow running on a webpage.

It allows users to flip through different content chunks, which could be images, text, or even videos, usually by clicking on some sort of navigation arrows or buttons.

How do sliders enhance a website’s user experience?

Sliders have a superpower: they can capture a user’s attention instantly. With their dynamic and visually appealing nature, they provide a way to present multiple pieces of content within a limited space.

They can be perfect to highlight key information, products, or features. It’s like giving your users a quick snapshot of what’s important.

Are sliders tricky to implement?

Not at all! There are tons of slider plugins and libraries available that make it a breeze to incorporate sliders into a website.

Plus, many content management systems, like WordPress, come equipped with built-in slider functionality. With a little bit of basic HTML, CSS, and JavaScript knowledge, you can get a slider up and running in no time.

Can a slider impact a website’s loading time?

Truth be told, a slider can affect loading times if not optimized correctly. It’s because sliders often involve loading multiple large images or videos, which can take time.

But don’t sweat it – proper image optimization, lazy loading techniques, and using efficient code can keep your sliders fast and snappy.

What content is best for sliders?

When it comes to sliders, think ‘highlights reel’. Your best content should shine here – whether that’s top-selling products, key blog posts, or special promotions.

But remember to keep it relevant and valuable to your users. Overloading a slider with too much or unrelated content could confuse or overwhelm them.

Can sliders be responsive?

Absolutely, yes! The beauty of modern web design is its adaptability, and sliders are no exception. With the right code or plugin, sliders can respond and adapt to different screen sizes and devices.

That means your sliders will look great whether they’re viewed on a desktop, tablet, or smartphone.

Can a slider have interactive elements?

For sure! Interactive elements can jazz up a slider even more. You can incorporate buttons, links, or forms right within the slides.

This can be super engaging, and encourage users to interact directly with the content. It’s like inviting your visitors to join the conversation right from the get-go.

How many slides are optimal for a slider?

Less is often more when it comes to sliders. Three to five slides is a good rule of thumb.

This keeps your users engaged without overwhelming them. Plus, having fewer slides also helps keep the loading times in check.

What’s the difference between a slider and a carousel?

Good question! Both are similar, but here’s the difference: a slider typically showcases one slide at a time, while a carousel can show multiple slides simultaneously.

It’s like comparing a single-lane slide to a merry-go-round. Both are fun, but they give different experiences.

Ending Thoughts on What Is a Slider

We’ve explored the ins and outs of what is a slider and why it’s more than just a fancy showpiece on a website.

We’ve talked about sliders being dynamic billboards that can do a lot. They can showcase products, highlight services, tell a story, or simply add that oomph factor to a website. But remember, it’s not about cramming as much as you can into a slider. It’s about balance and intuition.

We’ve also dived deep into the common pitfalls in slider design. Like those auto-advancing slides that don’t wait for anyone, or the hidden navigation controls that make users scratch their heads. And let’s not forget the cluttered sliders that are just too busy.

Then, we unveiled the magic of Slider Revolution. It’s not your run-of-the-mill slider plugin. It’s more like your personal genie, granting your wishes for stunning, interactive, and easy-to-create sliders. Whether it’s an image carousel, a video showcase, or a dynamic product slider – you dream it, Slider Revolution builds it.

And it’s not just about building sliders. It’s about optimizing performance, ensuring responsiveness, and making the design process as smooth as a hot knife through butter.

If you liked this article about what is a slider, you should check out this article about JavaScript sliders .

There are also similar articles discussing thumbnail sliders , responsive sliders , automatic slideshows , and something better than FlexSlider .

And let’s not forget about articles on parallax sliders , a Splide alternative , content sliders , and slider types .

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• WordPress Theme
• Plugin Elementor
• Plugin Gutenberg

What Is a Slider in a Website? [Full Explanation + Examples]

Updated on: October 30, 2023

A slider is an element used in certain websites that allows visitors to consume different chunks of information within the same space. They are also known as carousels or slideshows, and they can contain images, videos, or any other website elements. They can be consumed in a sequential or non-sequential order.

A slider is useful when developers want to present a lot of information in a reduce amount of space. Visitors can usually consume the content by choosing which chuck of information to pay attention to.

Sliders can also spin the different chunks of information in an automatic way, so visitors get pressented with different options to choose from.

The name “slider” comes from its similarity to a traditional carousel, but… what is a slider in WordPress? Does it refer to the same thing?

What is a Slider in WordPress?

A Slider in WordPress is a webpage component that presents any kind of information (images, videos, text…). Sliders show just one thing at a time and may be configured to move automatically or when prompted by user input. Sliders can be added to almost any page on a WordPress website.

You can opt for a free or paid WordPress slider plugin to implement this element on your website.

If you still have some doubts about what a slider is, the best way to get an idea is by checking examples of websites using sliders .

Why Should You Use a Slider on a Website?

Now that you know what is a slider on a website, here are some reasons why it can be a great idea to use one on your webpage:

Display more information: Sliders Pack A Lot Of Information Into A Small Amount Of Space. You can compress the material within a designated area, and consumers can examine it only when they find it useful throughout their browsing activity on the page.

Sliders capture users’ attention . From the moment they land on a website’s homepage, they will see the slider. They can improve visitor engagement, understanding, and retention of knowledge.

Sliders are fully controlled by users . They give users greater power by allowing them to choose whether or not to focus on one slide’s information. They assist visitors in focusing on what is important and allow them to get the relevant information whenever they choose.

Sliders are great sortcuts: Sliders serve as a one-stop shop for consumers before embarking on a lengthy journey. This may lead them to one route or another of content navigation. When used properly, they can be used to get the visitor from the homepage to other pages to view more of what you offer on your website.

Sliders are beautiful. Sliders have a pleasing aesthetic appearance. They’re appealing to the eye and are frequently the first thing consumers see when they visit a website. This makes them effective at keeping the visitors interested and making your site more fun to browse.

Slides are dynamic. Sliders And Carousels Are Ideal Choices For Dynamically Changing Material (you may wish to highlight new content, and this element comes in handy). A blog, for example, is regularly updated with new entries, and you may include fresh posts in a slider/carousel that appears on the blog homepage).

Sliders are great for storytelling. Sliders and carousels are very useful for product tours. They give multiple perspectives on the same product in an engaging and enjoyable manner.

2 Basic Steps to Add a Slider in WordPress

Adding a WordPress Slider requires the use of a plugin to install a slider or the use of custom CSS extensions. There are many plugins to choose from, with varying degrees of control.

Check our full tutorial about How to Add a Sliding Gallery to WordPress for more information.

1. Create The Slider With a WordPress Plugin

To add a WordPress slider with a plugin, there are a few simple steps to follow. Let’s review them:

• Step 1 : Install the plugin from your administrator’s page.
• Step 2 : Make a new slider.
• Step 3 : Fill the slider with photos, videos, and text.
• Step 4 : Choose a skin and make the slider publicly viewable by publishing it.
• Step 5: Insert the slider into a post, a page, or the WordPress theme.

2. Add custom CSS stylesheets

Because many WordPress image sliders do not allow custom styling, you must change your theme’s HTML and CSS to apply custom elements to your sliders. Using a CSS addon, on the other hand, saves time and allows you to insert unique CSS for every separate slider.

Here’s how to do it:

• Step 1 : Download and install the Slider plugin.
• Step 2 : Download and install the CSS extension
• Step 3 : Use the plugin to create an image slider.
• Step 4 : Include your own CSS.

6 Best Slider Plugins for You to Consider

Now that we know how to add a WordPress slider plugin, here are some of the best options you can check out.

1. fullPage.js

Your browser does not support the video tag.

fullPage.js is the most popular full-screen scrolling slider for WordPress that can be configured horizontally, vertically, or both.

Unlike most carousels, fullPage.js is meant to be used in full-screen and it works by sliding the whole section when scrolling with the mouse wheel or trackpad.

With 50+ options, fullPage.js is totally configurable and will for sure save you hundreds of hours of development.

If you are looking for a WordPress slider that will make your page stand out, fullPage.js is with no doubt a great option. It’s maintained by a team of people, up to date, and with great personalised support.

It works with either Elementor or Gutenberg builders for WordPress.

2. Slider Revolution

Slider Revolution is a powerful slider plugin for WordPress. It has many features that are difficult to find in other slider plugins. It also has a lot of customizability options for you to choose from.

Regarding the design, Slider Revolution has a unique feature called “swipeable” sliders. This allows you to create a smooth transition between each slide by using swipe gestures on your keyboard or touchscreen device. You can also choose from different styles and adjust the size and position of your content on the slider.

This plugin also allows you to create unlimited slideshows with just one click. In addition, you can upload images, videos, audio files, or text files into your slideshow with ease using their drag-and-drop interface.

Slider Revolution also offers many other customization options like color themes, fonts, and layouts, allowing you to personalize your blog posts instantly.

3. LayerSlider

Layerslider is a responsive slider plugin for WordPress that allows you to create beautiful, eye-catching slideshows that are simple to use.

It has been designed to help you build beautiful slideshows quickly and easily without worrying about any technical aspects of coding. You can even add several slideshows to one page, so you don’t have to worry about having too many images on your page.

This plugin was created with the idea that anyone could use it, whether they’re an experienced developer or a newbie who’s just starting in website design.

4. MetaSlider

Meta Slider is a WordPress plugin that allows you to create beautiful slideshows easily. Let’s face it: creating a slideshow can be an intimidating task. However, with the Meta slider plugin, you can easily create slideshows on your WordPress site.

The Meta Slider plugin is easy to use because it uses a drag-and-drop interface that makes creating slideshows simple. You can easily create different sizes and formats or upload images from your computer or other websites. You can also add captions and videos to your slideshow.

The Meta Slider plugin has features like auto-rotation, which allows users to rotate their images when displayed on the page, time lapse effects, and more.

5. Master Slider

The Master Slider plugin is a premium content slider plugin that can be used to create an infinite number of sliders on your WordPress site.

The main features of this plugin are:

• It has an infinite number of slides and pages
• You can create any layout for your slider
• You can choose between four different themes
• This plugin uses the latest CSS3 and HTML5 techniques

6. Edge Slider

The Edge Slider is a jQuery plugin that lets you create incredible slideshows with just one line of code.

In addition to being easy to use, this plugin has a lot of functionality built in. For example, you can easily add transitions between slides by using the transition manager. You can also add some neat effects like fading and sliding in/out on specific slides.

Sliders: An Essential Element in Many Websites

Sliders are versatile and are likely one of the most effective ways to showcase your message or product since they will get your viewers’ attention.

Everyone has different needs when it comes to getting those messages across and conveying their products.

Knowing which slider fits your business is not easy.

And while no one can give you a definitive answer on picking the best slider for your project, this guide explains what a slider is and can help you decide what features are most important to you and hopefully point you in the right direction.

Related Articles

• 10 Amazing WordPress Slider Plugins
• 6 Top Video Slider WordPress Plugins
• 10 Top WooCommerce Product Slider Plugins

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Usability & User Experience (UX) Blog

Sliders in Web Design: To Use or Not to Use?

By Alan Smith

Many designers have strong opinions about the use of sliders and slider controls in website design. Some love them; others hate them. A poorly-timed carousel or automated gallery slider can distract users from more critical site aspects. On the other hand, a manual slider allows mobile and website users to navigate through a range of content features or options quickly. Explore sliders and slider controls and find out when they are most useful in web design .

What are Sliders?

A slider is a term that refers to a slideshow on a website. An example of a slider can be a revolving carousel that displays products or photos. Web designers can incorporate sliders into all kinds of sites, but they are most useful for businesses wanting to show relevant content or showcase professional portfolios. When designers want to quickly show multiple options and help users sort through them quickly, a slider helps narrow down choices.

Why the Love Hate?

If you conduct a web search for sliders, near the top of the SERP, you will find critics who hate them, and just as many designers arguing in their favour. Here are some viewpoints on each side.

Critics argue sliders are confusing since they present users with several options at once, all of which have the same weight or importance. Since UX is about making choices clear, they say anything that creates confusion should be avoided. They also offer the following reasons they are bad UX:

• Visitors often view sliders the same way they do ads and skip over them.
• Sliders slow down pages, impacting SEO and conversion rates.
• Some sliders do not transition well to mobile.
• The space they take up reduces available room for other content.
• Sliders might give the impression that the company was not sure what to highlight, so opted to display all choices at the same time.

Some say a moving slideshow can have the same negative impact as auto-playing video. Instead of sliders, critics recommend using static images and copy.

Diagrammatically opposite, some designers love sliders and argue just as vehemently in favour of their use. Here are some ways adequately used content sliders can be good UX:

• They save space: Consolidate content so more is visible on one screen.
• Users stay engaged: Visitors linger in one place to view content, and visuals provide a break before continuing down the page.
• Sliders consolidate images: While media on the page can draw attention away from text, sliders put it all in one place to prevent distractions.
• Users control content: Always allow users to proceed through sliders at their own pace or skip them altogether if that’s not what they are looking for.

When to Use Sliders

While sliders are not right for every website, there are some they enhance. Start by analysing what your user is looking for and how each page of your website can help them toward completing that goal. If sliders solidify the brand and enhance the user’s trust, they can be a critical part of UX. If they create distraction and confusion, they will negatively impact conversions. Each organisation is unique, so what works flawlessly for some might have a detrimental effect on others.

Avoid making sliders a distraction by minimising transitions and choosing soft fades instead of jerky horizontal slides. Make navigation easy with noticeable arrow buttons for moving backwards and forward. Allow mobile users to swipe. Optimise page load time by using the smallest possible image size and wait to load slides later in the carousel, since viewers may not require them.

Use Sliders for Product Tours

When site visitors see large chunks of information, it can be overwhelming. If you offer a product that works in a series of steps, use sliders to show the series and create a visual for the user.

For example, a company that uses smartphones to process credit card transactions might feature on its site a slider that shows a customer presenting the card as payment, an employee swiping it through the device, and funds being transferred to the desired account. What would have taken the user several minutes to read through text, they quickly understand through a slider in seconds. The same process can be adapted to user onboarding for new sites and mobile apps.

Make New Content Stand Out

First-time website visitors often want to know what their options are and what the website has to offer. Homepage content sliders provide a brief overview and allow visitors to make a decision quickly.

If you regularly update your site, sliders can emphasise updates. On news websites, the latest and most sensational material is usually the focus of their content slider. Every update stands at the forefront for as long as it is the latest news or newest offering. Users know at a glance when things have changed.

Present Photo Galleries

Sometimes a single image makes a powerful statement about your brand. Other times, a collection of images provides compelling evidence of an organisation’s quality, value and trustworthiness. A slider goes beyond simply displaying images. It both organises and displays images irrespective of whether you choose a photo gallery with several small images or screen after screen of full-page high-quality graphics.

Photo galleries can be indispensable for organisations that sell real estate or cars. Home buyers want to see multiple photos of a home before they view it in person, and sliders allow them to quickly thumb through.

Car manufacturers present screen after screen of their vehicle’s elite features and innovative design to interest buyers in further details. Instead of having to select individual images, shoppers can quickly flip through. The reduced friction enhances user experience.

Display Portfolios Online

Artists, graphic designers and web developers often seek to demonstrate their products, skills and abilities. Clients want to see a taste or a brief overview that allows them to assess overall quality and tone. A slider enables designers to display work in a flexible format. Visitors can see as much or as little as they wish, but even if they do not stay long, they leave with a general impression.

Showcase Ecommerce Options

Online entrepreneurs can display a few of the company’s most popular or recognisable products to draw users in, emphasise new varieties or flavours, or show categories to make it easier for users to shop. Designers who research e-commerce web design trends for better sales know some of the most effective layouts use a minimalist approach and plenty of white space , so the slider is allowed to shine.

Test for Effectiveness

Sliders are useful if they tell a story and leave control over viewing with the user. If you are not sure if your slider improves user experience, test it. If you are just designing your page, run an A/B test to see how users interact with the slider and which version they prefer. See which version had the higher conversion rate or increased revenue.

If the slider is on an existing page, track user interaction and click-through data. Note the point at which clicks begin to diminish. Often interest wanes as users proceed through multiple slides. This can be because designers usually put the most compelling content first, but if subsequent material fails to hold user interest, it just slows page load times.

In Conclusion

Each site is different, and each receives different types of visitors. Designers who start with what the user needs and design content around their preferences and interaction style use a wide range of tools to present content. When used correctly, sliders can be implemented to create an even more immersive browsing experience.

Want to learn more?

Are you interested in the intersection between UX and UI Design? The online courses on UI Design Patterns for Successful Software and Design Thinking: The Beginner’s Guide can teach you skills you need. If you take a course, you will earn an industry-recognized course certificate to advance your career. On the other hand, if you want to brush up on the basics of UX and Usability, try the online course on User Experience (or another design topic ). Good luck on your learning journey!

(Lead image: Depositphotos – affiliate link )

About Alan Smith

Alan Smith is an is an out of the heart writer voicing out his take on various topics of social media, web design, mobile apps, digital marketing, entrepreneurship, startups and much more in the cutting edge digital world. He is associated with SPINX Digital a Los Angeles web design company & digital marketing agency. When he is not writing, he can be found traveling outdoors with his camera. You can follow Alan on Twitter @Alan Smith

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Definition of slide

 (Entry 1 of 2)

intransitive verb

transitive verb

Definition of slide  (Entry 2 of 2)

Examples of slide in a Sentence

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'slide.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Middle English, from Old English slīdan ; akin to Middle High German slīten to slide

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at intransitive sense 1a

1570, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing slide

• let (something) slide
• let things slide
• slide fastener
• slide valve
• on the slide

Dictionary Entries Near slide

slide-action

Cite this Entry

“Slide.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/slide. Accessed 14 Nov. 2023.

Kids Definition

Kids definition of slide.

Kids Definition of slide  (Entry 2 of 2)

Medical Definition

Medical definition of slide, more from merriam-webster on slide.

Nglish: Translation of slide for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of slide for Arabic Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about slide

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to move along in continuous contact with a smooth or slippery surface: to slide down a snow-covered hill.

to slip or skid.

to glide or pass smoothly.

to slip easily, quietly, or unobtrusively on or as if on a track, channel, or guide rail (usually followed by in, out, away, etc.).

to pass or fall gradually into a specified state, character, practice, etc.

to decline or decrease: Interest rates are beginning to slide.

Baseball . (of a base runner) to cast oneself, usually feet first, forward along the ground in the direction of the base being approached, to present less of a target for a baseman attempting to make a tag.

to cause to slide, slip, or coast, as over a surface or with a smooth, gliding motion.

to hand, pass along, or slip (something) easily or quietly (usually followed by in, into, etc.): to slide a note into someone's hand.

an act or instance of sliding.

a smooth surface for sliding on, especially a type of chute in a playground.

an object intended to slide.

a landslide or the like.

the mass of matter sliding down.

a single transparency, object, or image for projection in a projector, as a lantern slide.

Photography . a small positive color transparency mounted for projection on a screen or magnification through a viewer.

a usually rectangular plate of glass on which objects are placed for microscopic examination.

Furniture . a shelf sliding into the body of a piece when not in use.

an embellishment consisting of an upward or downward series of three or more tones, the last of which is the principal tone.

a portamento.

a U-shaped section of the tube of an instrument of the trumpet class, as the trombone, that can be pushed in or out to alter the length of the air column and change the pitch.

a vehicle mounted on runners, for conveying loads, as of grain or wood, especially over a level surface.

(of a machine or mechanism)

a moving part working on a track, channel, or guide rails.

the surface, track, channel, or guide rails on which the part moves.

any of various chutes used in logging, mining, or materials handling.

a flat or very low-heeled, backless shoe or slipper that can be slipped on and off the foot easily.

Idioms about slide

let slide , to allow to deteriorate, pursue a natural course, etc., without intervention on one's part: to let things slide.

Origin of slide

Synonym study for slide, other words for slide, other words from slide.

• slid·a·ble, adjective
• slid·a·ble·ness, noun
• outslide, verb (used with object), out·slid, out·slid or out·slid·den, out·slid·ing.

Words Nearby slide

• slickenside
• slide-action
• slide fastener
• slide guitar

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023

How to use slide in a sentence

Those opportunities could crystalize over the coming months, particularly as programmatic spending starts to recover from its coronavirus-induced slide .

More than just a looming monolith, though, the eccentric construction would have linked Chicago with New York and Boston via slides so the residents of those cities could toboggan to the Windy City for the fair.

The day of the presentation comes, and the e-commerce team gathers around, continuously nodding along with each slide .

You can take any blog article and create an infographic, video or slide presentation in order to mix things up.

All true enough — but those are just the most visible sites of the innovation chain, the kind of photos you see in IPO slide decks for so-called cutting-edge companies.

Near the door thousands of stilettos slide and shuffle on black ice, somehow always keeping their immaculate balance.

The reason is on the next slide , which is filled with public NIMBY complaints.

If the U.S. does nothing, the Arab world will continue its slide into sectarian bigotry, political repression, and madness.

There would be occasional periods of promise, but once the 1950s came it was a steady, painful downhill slide .

However, standard-speaking whites have a “warm” English they can slide into as well.

Practise gliding in the form of inflection, or slide , from one extreme of pitch to another.

Scratches and flaws in the glass of slide or cover are likewise a common source of confusion to beginners.

Touch the center of a cover-glass to the top of the drop and quickly place it, blood side down, upon a slide .

A rather large drop is taken upon a slide , covered, and examined with a low power.

A large drop is allowed to dry upon a clean slide or unglazed paper.

British Dictionary definitions for slide

/ ( slaɪd ) /

to move or cause to move smoothly along a surface in continual contact with it : doors that slide open ; children sliding on the ice

(intr) to lose grip or balance : he slid on his back

(intr; usually foll by into, out of, away from, etc ) to pass or move gradually and unobtrusively : she slid into the room

( intr usually foll by into ) to go (into a specified condition) by degrees, unnoticeably, etc : he slid into loose living

(foll by in, into, etc ) to move (an object) unobtrusively or (of an object) to move in this way : he slid the gun into his pocket

(intr) music to execute a portamento

let slide to allow to follow a natural course, esp one leading to deterioration : to let things slide

the act or an instance of sliding

a smooth surface, as of ice or mud, for sliding on

a construction incorporating an inclined smooth slope for sliding down in playgrounds, etc

rowing a sliding seat in a boat or its runners

a thin glass plate on which specimens are mounted for microscopic study

Also called: transparency a positive photograph on a transparent base, mounted in a cardboard or plastic frame or between glass plates, that can be viewed by means of a slide projector

Also called: hair slide mainly British an ornamental clip to hold hair in place : US and Canadian name: barrette

a sliding part or member

the track, guide, or channel on or in which such a part slides

the sliding curved tube of a trombone that is moved in or out to allow the production of different harmonic series and a wider range of notes

a portamento

a metal or glass tube placed over a finger held against the frets of a guitar to produce a portamento

the style of guitar playing using a slide : See also bottleneck (def. 3)

the rapid downward movement of a large mass of earth, rocks, etc, caused by erosion, faulting, etc

the mass of material involved in this descent : See also landslide

Derived forms of slide

• slidable , adjective
• slider , noun

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Scientific definitions for slide

A mass movement of earth, rocks, snow, or ice down a slope. Slides can be caused by an accumulation of new matter or of moisture in the overlying material, or by erosion within or below the material. They are often triggered by an earthquake or other disturbance such as an explosion.

The mass of material resulting from such a process.

The American Heritage® Science Dictionary Copyright © 2011. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

Other Idioms and Phrases with slide

see let ride (slide); let slip (slide).

The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary Copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.

• Cambridge Dictionary +Plus

Meaning of slide in English

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slide verb ( MOVE )

• I slid down the hill .
• She slid her hand into his pocket .
• She slid her legs from under the duvet and got up stealthily .
• Hardly aware of what she was doing, Susie slid her hand up to his shoulder .
• She slid into the seat next to him.
• ballistically
• make for somewhere/something
• make towards something/someone

slide verb ( GET WORSE )

• be (all) downhill idiom
• deterioration
• devaluation
• disintegrate
• regressively

slide noun ( MOVEMENT )

• anti-gravity
• atmospherically
• hydrosphere
• ionospheric
• lithosphere
• lithospheric
• mesospheric
• Mother Nature
• the Big Bang
• unconformity
• weightlessness
• zero gravity

You can also find related words, phrases, and synonyms in the topics:

slide noun ( WORSE STATE )

Slide noun ( display ).

• aerial photograph
• golden hour
• happy slapping
• photojournalist

slide noun ( GLASS )

• anti-reflection
• anti-reflective
• chromatic aberration
• concentrator
• converging lens
• electron microscope
• field glasses
• magnification
• magnifying glass
• opera glasses
• polarization
• reflecting telescope

slide noun ( HAIR )

• coconut oil
• permanent wave
• straighteners

slide noun ( SHOE )

• Slip on a pair of slides, a welcome relief from clunky boots .
• If you are simply looking for some slip-on summer comfort , we've got the perfect sliders for any vacation .
• ballet flat
• ballet shoe
• Birkenstock
• high-heeled
• hiking boot
• rubber boot
• running shoe
• walking boot

slide | American Dictionary

Slide verb ( move easily ), slide noun ( photograph ), slide noun ( structure for play ), slide | business english, examples of slide, collocations with slide.

These are words often used in combination with slide .

Click on a collocation to see more examples of it.

Translations of slide

Get a quick, free translation!

Word of the Day

be no reasoning with someone

If there is no reasoning with someone, it is impossible to persuade that person to change their opinions or actions.

Reunions and housewarmings (Words for different parties)

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• slide (MOVE)
• slide (GET WORSE)
• slide (MOVEMENT)
• slide (WORSE STATE)
• slide (DISPLAY)
• slide (GLASS)
• slide (HAIR)
• slide (SHOE)
• slide (MOVE EASILY)
• slide (PHOTOGRAPH)
• slide (STRUCTURE FOR PLAY)
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• 5 . IP Address: Latitude/Longitude The IP address is a string of numbers that give the exact address of your hosting account. Ex: 198.154.222.140 It’s like latitude and longitude – an accurate description of where your house is, but not very useful for telling someone how to get there.
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• 8 . FTP: The Highway The FTP (File Transfer Protocol) or SFTP (SSH File Transfer Protocol) is how you move files between your computer and the server where the site is hosted. It’s like the highway that the moving truck takes to bring your stuff to your new house.
• 9 . HTML: Framework HTML stands for Hyper Text Markup Language. HTML tags are the building blocks that make up the structure of your site. Ex: <p>Hello, world!</p> HTML is like the framework of your house: the foundation, walls, and roof.
• 10 . CSS: Paint & Other Styling CSS stands for Cascading Style Sheets. It controls the appearance of HTML elements. CSS can be used to make a website responsive. Ex: p { padding: 10px; } CSS is your paint, style of doors, size of window frame, anything the changes the surface appearance of your home.
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• 17 . Components: Hosting Your hosting account is rented space on a server. A server is a computer that holds your site files. You can purchase hosting from a company such as HostGator or BlueHost. There are many options, most of which also sell domain names, such as GoDaddy. You can also have your own server if needed. This gives you more flexibility, but also takes more work to manage.
• 18 . Components: Hosting Like any computer, hosting servers run on different operating systems. Two of the most common operating systems for hosting servers are Apache (Linux) and Windows. Apache Windows Can run HTML Can run HTML More likely to use PHP More likely to use ASP.net Uses .htaccess file for redirects Does not use .htaccess file Typical URL: index.php Typical URL: default.asp Like all rules, you’re sure to find exceptions to this list – just use these as general guidelines.
• 19 . Components: Hosting When you switch hosting accounts, you have to point your domain name to the new hosting account. After you make the switch, the changes need to propagate, or spread through the Internet, before you’ll see a difference. This can take anywhere from 10 minutes to 48 hours.
• 20 . Components: Site Files Site files can include images, documents, templates, HTML files, anything you upload to your website. You can access the files through the FTP or a File Manager in the hosting account.
• 21 . Components: Database A database is essentially a spreadsheet containing your website’s content and linking it together. For example, for a WordPress site, the database would contain tables for settings, posts, comments, users, etc. The website is coded to automatically pull this information into the template. When moving a website to a new hosting account, it is important to move both the site files and the database (if there is one).
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• 23 . Components: Plugins Most of the more common CMSs allow plugins, 3rd party extensions that add new functionality to the site or CMS. Plugins save a lot of time and money because you do not have to write your own code for the features you want. Although some advanced plugins require payment, many are free. Always do your research and read reviews before adding a plugin, and backup your site beforehand.
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• 25 . In Conclusion
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