What is Above the Fold

Above the fold is the part of a webpage that is visible without scrolling when the page first loads. Because it’s the first thing people see when they open a page, it’s often where key messages, visuals, and calls to action are placed. This area plays a big role in capturing attention and encouraging users to explore further.

A brief history

Above the fold is a term that comes from the newspaper industry: when papers were folded in half and displayed on newsstands, the top half of the page (which was literally above the fold) featured the most important headlines and stories to catch readers’ attention. As we started consuming more information online, the term carried over to describe the part of a webpage that’s visible before a user scrolls. While where the fold falls now varies by device, the idea of prioritizing key content in this prime space remains.

Good to know

Where the fold falls isn’t fixed. Different screen sizes and device types affect how much of your page is visible, and therefore how much of your webpage appears on the screen when you first open it. It’s important to design your pages responsively, making sure key content (like your value proposition, headline, and primary call to action) shows up early on every device.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know what’s above the fold on my website?
Because where the fold falls varies by screen size and device, there’s no universal rule, but there are a few ways to check:The easiest method is just to open your webpage on commonly used devices like a desktop computer, laptop, and average-sized phone, and see for yourself what’s visible on first open.Most modern website builders and CMS platforms will let you see a preview of your webpage on different screen sizes before you publish to help you figure out what will show above the fold.You can also use tools like Hotjar or Crazy Egg to show how far users scroll down your page. This will help you see where the fold typically lands for your audience.
What should go above the fold?
Your most important messaging, which usually includes a clear headline, a short value proposition, and a strong call to action. Think of it as your chance to make a first impression and tell users why they should stick around.
Should everything important be above the fold?
Not everything (you don’t want to overwhelm people), but enough to hook the visitor. You want to give people a reason to scroll, so prioritize clarity over quantity.