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How to Create HTML Sitemap: A-to-Z Guide for Beginners!

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Learn how to create HTML sitemap from scratch with this easy-to-understand article that explains its purpose, structure, creation methods, and how it helps improve your site performance.

Creating an HTML sitemap for your website is one of the smartest ways to enhance user navigation, improve SEO, and ensure every corner of your website is visible to both users and search engines. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned webmaster, knowing how to create HTML sitemap can give your website an instant SEO edge.

How to Create HTML Sitemap

We’re exploring “How to Create HTML Sitemap” in this article, With all the key information, tools, and steps at your fingertips.

Let’s take the first step!

What is an HTML Sitemap?

An HTML sitemap is a webpage that lists all important internal links of your website in a hierarchical structure. Unlike XML sitemaps (meant for search engines), HTML sitemaps are designed for human visitors. It helps users find pages easily and improves your website’s crawlability.

Example of HTML Sitemap:

A typical HTML sitemap for a blog might look like:

- Home
- About Us
- Blog
   - SEO Tips
   - Marketing Guides
   - Tutorials
- Contact

This format helps users and search engines understand your site’s structure at a glance.

Why HTML Sitemaps Matter?

Here are 5 key reasons why creating an HTML sitemap is crucial:

  1. Improves User Navigation: An HTML sitemap is like a table of contents for your website. If a visitor is struggling to find a specific page, they can navigate to the sitemap and access it directly. This is especially helpful for large websites.
  2. Boosts SEO: When you link all your important pages in a central sitemap, search engine bots find it easier to crawl and index them. This improves the overall visibility of your website in search engine result pages (SERPs).
  3. Reduces Bounce Rate: Easy navigation keeps users engaged. When users can find what they are looking for, they stay longer on your website, reducing bounce rates and increasing dwell time—a known SEO factor.
  4. Fixes Orphan Pages: Pages not linked internally (orphan pages) can go unnoticed by search engines. Adding them to your HTML sitemap ensures they are discoverable and indexed.
  5. Improves Accessibility: Users with limited browsing abilities or those using assistive technologies benefit from structured lists of links, making your website more inclusive.

“A well-structured HTML sitemap is like a compass for your users and a roadmap for search engines.” – Mr Rahman, CEO Oflox®

How to Create HTML Sitemap

Let’s break down how to create HTML sitemap using both manual and automated methods. Choose the one that suits your technical comfort level and website size.

Method 1: Manually Create an HTML Sitemap

This approach is best for small websites or landing pages.

Step 1: List All URLs

Start by identifying all the important pages you want users to access. Use a spreadsheet or notepad and group them into logical categories.

Step 2: Write the HTML Code

Here is a basic HTML sitemap code snippet:

<!DOCTYPE html>
<html>
<head>
  <title>HTML Sitemap</title>
  <meta charset="UTF-8">
  <meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1.0">
</head>
<body>
  <h1>HTML Sitemap</h1>
  <ul>
    <li><a href="/">Home</a></li>
    <li><a href="/about">About Us</a></li>
    <li>Blog
      <ul>
        <li><a href="/blog/seo-tips">SEO Tips</a></li>
        <li><a href="/blog/marketing-guides">Marketing Guides</a></li>
        <li><a href="/blog/tutorials">Tutorials</a></li>
      </ul>
    </li>
    <li><a href="/contact">Contact</a></li>
  </ul>
</body>
</html>

Step 3: Upload to Your Server

Save the above code as sitemap.html and upload it to your root directory using FTP or your hosting control panel.

Method 2: Use WordPress Plugins

If you’re using WordPress, several plugins can automate the process.

Top HTML Sitemap Plugins:

  • Simple Sitemap
  • WP Sitemap Page
  • Rank Math SEO

Steps:

  1. Go to Plugins → Add New.
  2. Search for your desired sitemap plugin.
  3. Install and activate it.
  4. Create a new page and use the plugin’s shortcode (e.g., [wp_sitemap_page]).
  5. Publish the page. That’s it!

Method 3: Use Oflox® Free HTML Sitemap Generator

If you’re looking for the simplest and most professional way to generate an HTML sitemap, we highly recommend using Our Free HTML Sitemap Generator Tool.

Built by experts at Oflox®, this tool is 100% free, beginner-friendly, and requires no login or signup. Whether you’re a blogger, developer, or business owner, you can generate your sitemap in seconds with just a few clicks.

  • Unlimited Use
  • No Login Required
  • Simple UI & UX
  • Instant Copy or Download Option

How to Use:

  1. Paste your website URLs or internal links into the input box.
  2. Click “Generate Sitemap” to create the HTML structure.
  3. Preview the result, then choose to copy or download the generated HTML file.
  4. Upload the file to your site’s root directory to make it live.

👇Try It Free

Best Practices for HTML Sitemaps

Best PracticeWhy It Matters
Organize logicallyHelps both users and crawlers understand structure.
Update regularlyKeeps search engines aware of changes.
Style with CSSImproves readability and matches brand identity.
Use clear anchor textEnhances user experience and context.
Limit deep linksStick to 2–3 levels for clarity.

Common HTML Sitemap Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Too Many Links on One Page – Keep it clean and organized.
  2. Outdated URLs – Always update the sitemap after publishing/removing pages.
  3. Missing Footer Link – Always link to your sitemap from your site’s footer.
  4. Not Submitting to Search Console – Although HTML sitemaps are for users, it’s helpful to reference them in your SEO audit.
  5. No Mobile Optimization – Ensure your HTML sitemap is mobile-responsive.

FAQs:)

Q. Can I use both HTML and XML sitemaps together?

A. Yes! XML helps search engines, and HTML helps users. Both improve your website’s SEO.

Q. Is HTML sitemap a ranking factor?

A. Indirectly. It improves navigation, reduces bounce rate, and enhances crawlability, which collectively support SEO performance.

Q. Should I add all pages in HTML sitemap?

A. Only important ones—blog posts, service pages, about, contact. Avoid admin or thank-you pages.

Q. How to make sitemap look attractive?

A. Use CSS for layout, typography, hover effects, and spacing. You can also add icons using Font Awesome.

Q. Can I automate the updating of my HTML sitemap?

A. Yes, with CMS plugins or custom scripts using PHP or JavaScript that update when new pages are added.

Conclusion:)

Creating a well-structured HTML sitemap is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to improve user experience and boost your website’s SEO. Whether you choose manual coding, WordPress plugins, or online tools, understanding how to create HTML sitemap is essential in 2025 and beyond.

So take the step. Build a sitemap that guides users, boosts crawlability, and represents your site’s structure with clarity.

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Found this guide helpful? Drop your thoughts or questions in the comments below – we’d love to hear from you!