method
The HTML method attribute defines how form data is sent to a server, using either GET for visible data or POST for hidden data.
method attribute
The HTML method attribute defines how to send form data to a server within a <form> element, specifying the HTTP method for submission. It can take two values:
Syntax
index.html
<form method="GET | POST">
Example
index.html
<form method="get">
<label for="fname">First name:</label><br>
<input type="text" id="fname" name="firstname" placeholder="Your name..">
<br><br>
<label for="lname">Last name:</label><br>
<input type="text" id="lname" name="lastname" placeholder="Your last name..">
<br><br>
<input type="submit" value="Submit">
</form>
Definition and Usage
The method attribute defines how to send form data to the page specified in the action attribute.
Form data can be sent as URL variables using method="get", or as an HTTP POST request with method="post".
GET adds form data to the URL, with size limits and visible information, making it ideal for non-sensitive data and bookmarking, whereas POST includes data in the request body, with no size limits, but cannot be bookmarked and keeps data hidden from the URL.Values
- GET: This method sends data as part of the URL, making it visible. It's not recommended for transmitting sensitive information such as passwords or financial details.
- POST: This method sends data in the body of the
HTTPrequest, keeping it hidden. It is more secure for transmitting sensitive information.
Applies To
The method attribute can be applied to the following HTML elements.
Conclusion
The method attribute in HTML determines how form data is transmitted to the server, either through GET or POST. GET appends data as visible URL parameters, while POST securely sends it in the request body. The choice between them depends on the data type, particularly when sensitive information needs protection.