CSS positioning

[Technosailor]

How do ya'll determine positioning of layers in CSS? Do you have a method for determining the pixel positioning or is it just trial and error? Or do you tend not to use absolute positioning and instead use relative? This is an area of CSS that I have not found real simple to pickup and has caused many a headache.

Sketch

[creole]

Not exactly sure what you mean but I assume that you're asking if it's possible to precisely place an element on a page?

If that's what you need then it's as simple as this line of code:

.element { position: absolute; top: 125px; left: 100px; }

Hold on...I think you're asking how I decide where I want an element? If that's what you're asking then it's all in the design. I personally would not trust positioned elements to the browser's whim. I will use TABLEs for positioning for some time to come.

[Technosailor]

okay, I understand that, but is there a method to determining the top and left coordinates or it just trial and error?

Sketch

[boredboi]

you could always take a screenshot and use a graphics program to measure...

alternatively, there's a technique that involves image maps, that allows the cursor coordinates to be displayed in the status bar.

i can't remember the code, but i know it has something to do with image maps. perhaps someone else can help.

[creole]

screenshot is he easiest way.

[Maelstrom]

Depending on what program you use, if any, you can simply turn on rulers and position away. I usually use he rules to position absolutely and more often than not I get it in the right spot. The only downfall is the difference between Netscape and IE for positioning. Then I have to play around to get it just perfect.

[Technosailor]

Dreamweaver...theres nothing in there with rulers, right?

sketch