# Document type declaration

The declaration at the start of a document that tells browsers to use modern HTML parsing.

## What is **Document type declaration**?

**Document type declaration** — The declaration at the start of a document that tells browsers to use modern HTML parsing.

```html
<!doctype html>
```

Level: Novice · [More HTML terms at this level](https://www.ask-codey.com/glossary/subjects/html/novice)

Updated: September 27, 2026

Source: https://www.ask-codey.com/glossary/document-type-declaration