From Rachel Andrew’s How to Learn CSS, my main take-away was how specific CSS allows you to be. By targeting specific parts of your code, you are easily able to make small adjustments to your site without having to re-write large sections by creating multiple style changes. Things such as p:first-child::first-line allow you to alter specific sections in say, a body or in this case, a paragraph. While you can be specific, CSS also allows you to alter all of a single type of syntax with selectors. With this tool you can change the font for all h1 or all of your divs. At first CSS seems daunting but through this simple article, it makes it much more approachable. I find coding often becomes a spirling pit of intimidation, all the syntax and things to remember become an obstacle that I do not know how to climb. Coming at this from the lens of a photographer, someone who pays attention to the arrangement of shapes in the frame, I’m used to thinking of sliding scales and balancing of colors. Conceptually, I’m able to put into words what I want to do with my code but often can never remember specifically how to do it. I’m able to put the syntax into words but not type it into a text editor. I equate it to being able to understand a language but not speak it but I think that way of thinking allows a subliminal rejection of writing the code itself. Through photography and graphic design, I think of layers and hierarchies to help build a visually stimulating battlefield of balance, however with programming it often feels as if everything is on the same plane and I’m unable to create depth that would hold my fascination. This article showed me something I’ve been looking for in programming: the ability to begin thinking of websites as a true object, adding another dimension: position: absolute. The ability to have free-floating boxes that are not a part of the flow. Now I have something that I can begin to grasp as a multi-layered object that I can pull apart and stick back together. I initially thought of CSS as something that would just allow me to pick fonts, colors, and animation, but nothing serious that would allow me to fully utilize programming as a tool. I’m now working to think approach my projects using programming as a way to push my creative ability and find new ways to both help others and push my own boundaries as a designer. While I still find programming daunting, I’m beginning to find little things such as position: absolute make it feel more exciting and approachable. Programming feels at times as if there is no end to the learning curve but the more I can find satisfaction in the little things. With finding joy in making simple websites, I can begin to appreciate programming and use my small but growing knowledge to my advantage. WIth enough CSS style, anything can look intentional to the untrained eye and furthermore, anything can become more successful in presenting your work than adobe portfolio.