Many symbols have very different meanings in XHTML, even though they may look very similar to one another.

Some common mistakes are using … (3 periods) instead of the … entity. Or using an x (letter x) instead of × (multiplication symbol).

While WordPress users can use the Insert custom character tool when writing posts, having a nice resource of all the character entities when coding a site can be a big help. It can also help cut down on validation errors (ampersand woes, anyone?).

Here are 4 nice resources listing most/all the XHTML character entities.

XHTML Character Entity Reference (Digital Media Minute)

Contains all 252 allowed HTML 4 / XHTML 1.0 character entities. Entities can be filtered to show only characters in specific categories such as shapes and arrows, mathematical symbols, international entities, etc.

The list can also be printed out easily for use as a cheat sheet.

Entity Code

Entity Code shows the most common / most used entities and can be filters also to show only certain types (math, currency, etc) of character enties. This makes browsing and finding the right entity easy.

Character Entities in HTML and XHTML (Web Standards Project)

The Web Standards Project has a set of very accurate and complete resources for character entities.

HTML XHTML Entities (Cookwood)

Very detailed list of XHTML 1.0 and HTML 4 characters. Includes descriptions of each symbol.

Similar Posts:

  • Share/Bookmark