Glossary

below the fold website

Below the fold refers to the portion of a webpage that is not immediately visible when the page loads and requires scrolling to access. The concept originated from print newspapers, where the most important content was placed above the physical fold of the front page.

Context and Usage

The term is primarily used in web design, digital marketing, and user experience (UX) contexts. Designers, content strategists, and SEO professionals use this concept when planning webpage layouts and content hierarchies. The fold varies across devices due to different screen sizes, with mobile devices typically showing less content above the fold than desktop monitors.

Common Challenges

Challenges include determining where the fold actually falls across diverse devices and screen sizes. Some users may not scroll to discover below-the-fold content, leading to missed information or reduced engagement. Content placement below the fold might receive less visual attention, potentially impacting conversion rates or message delivery.

Related Topics: above the fold, responsive design, mobile-first design, user engagement, scroll depth, content hierarchy

Jan 22, 2026

Reviewed by Dan Yan