A header is the line or block of text that appears at the very top of a page, screen, or section, usually giving key information like the title or page number. In writing and documents, it helps identify the page and guide the reader through the content.

Basic meaning

  • In documents, a header is text at the top of each page that often contains things like the page number, author name, or a short title.
  • In essays using styles like MLA or APA, the header usually combines a name or short title with the page number so pages can be tracked easily.

Headers vs headings

  • A header is the repeating line at the top of every page, while a heading is the title of a specific section, like “Introduction” or “Methods”.
  • Headings break up and organize the text, but the header stays the same (or mostly the same) across pages to help with navigation.

Why headers matter

  • They make documents easier to use, letting readers quickly see where they are and whose work they are reading.
  • In digital content (like web pages), headers and section headings improve readability and help readers skim and find information faster.

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