Media query is the basic tool for responsive website design, enabling multi-device compatibility by switching styles based on device characteristics (such as screen width). Its basic syntax is @media media type and (condition) { CSS rules}, such as using @media screen and (max-width: 767px) to adjust the small screen style. It is recommended to adopt a mobile priority strategy, first define the mobile phone style and then gradually adapt to a larger screen. Pay attention to when using: ① Select a general breakpoint instead of a specific device size; ② Set the viewport meta tag to ensure that the mobile terminal takes effect; ③ Avoid relying solely on browser zoom tests; ④ Only modify the styles that need to be adjusted in media queries. Mastering media queries helps build a responsive layout with clear structure and easy to maintain.

When writing responsive websites, media inquiries are the basic tools that cannot be avoided. It can help you switch styles according to device characteristics (such as screen width and resolution) to achieve good-looking effects on different devices.

Basic syntax needs to be clear

The way of writing media queries is actually not complicated, and the most commonly used one is to make judgments based on the screen width. The basic structure is:

 @media Media Type and (condition) {
  /* CSS rules that meet the criteria*/
}

For example, if you want to change the font size when the screen is less than 768px, you can write it like this:

 @media screen and (max-width: 767px) {
  body {
    font-size: 14px;
  }
}

Here are a few small details to note:

• screen means it is suitable for screen devices, and can also be other types such as print .
• The condition part can use min-width , max-width , orientation (direction), resolution and other parameters.
• Multiple conditions can be connected with and , or a comma indicates a relationship of "or"

Mobile priority is the mainstream practice

Now for responsive design, it is recommended to adopt the Mobile First strategy. That is to say, first write the style of the mobile phone, and then gradually enhance it on a larger screen.

For example, you can arrange media inquiries like this:

 /* The default is the mobile phone style*/
.container {
  width: 100%;
}

/* Tablet and above equipment*/
@media screen and (min-width: 768px) {
  .container {
    width: 750px;
  }
}

/* Desktop Device*/
@media screen and (min-width: 1024px) {
  .container {
    width: 960px;
  }
}

There are several benefits to doing this:

• The phone loads faster because you don't need to download unnecessary styles
• Clear structure and easy maintenance
• More in line with modern web development trends

Avoid common pitfalls

When using media queries, some places are prone to errors or ignore:

• Don't try to fight specific device sizes : for example, the iPhone 13 is 1440px, but you don't need to write a media query that only targets it. It is more reasonable to choose a few general breakpoints, such as 768px, 1024px, and 1440px.
• Pay attention to viewport settings : The mobile page must be added with <meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1"> , otherwise the media query may not take effect.
• Don’t just look at the zoom browser when testing : the actual device and browser zoom sometimes perform differently, and it is best to test it if possible.
• Don't put all styles into media query : the basic styles are still written outside, and only the parts that need to be adjusted in media query are changed.

Basically that's it. Mastering media inquiries is the first step to responsiveness. Although there are layout methods like CSS Grid and Flexbox now, media query is still a very practical control method when adapting to different devices.

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