HAML

HAML revolutionizes HTML template development through elegant indentation-based syntax that transforms verbose, cluttered markup into clean, maintainable code that reads like poetry. Originally created for Ruby on Rails by Hampton Catlin, HAML has become the gold standard for developers who value readable templates and DRY (Don’t Repeat Yourself) principles in web development.

This powerful HTML abstraction language reduces typical HTML verbosity by up to 50% while maintaining complete functionality and improving code readability through significant whitespace and CSS-style selector syntax. Used by companies like GitHub, Shopify, and thousands of Rails applications worldwide, HAML transforms the traditionally tedious process of HTML template writing into an intuitive, enjoyable development experience.

Developers choose HAML because it eliminates the repetitive nature of closing tags, reduces visual noise, and creates templates that are easier to read, debug, and maintain than traditional HTML, making it essential for teams building modern web applications with clean, professional markup.

Key Features

• Indentation-based structure - Eliminates closing tags through meaningful whitespace and visual hierarchy • CSS-style element creation - Intuitive class and ID definition using familiar CSS selector syntax • Dynamic content interpolation - Seamless integration of Ruby expressions and variables within templates • Automatic tag management - Intelligent tag closing and nesting based on indentation levels • Multi-language filters - Native support for embedding JavaScript, Markdown, CSS, and other languages • Template helper integration - Streamlined Rails helpers and form generation with minimal syntax • Radical verbosity reduction - Achieve 50% less code while maintaining full HTML functionality • Cross-platform implementations - Available for Ruby, PHP, Python, JavaScript, and .NET environments

Pros and Cons

Pros: • Dramatically reduces HTML verbosity while maintaining complete functionality and readability • Eliminates common HTML errors like unclosed tags through structural indentation requirements • Integrates seamlessly with Rails ecosystem and established development workflows • Creates more maintainable templates that are easier to read and debug than traditional HTML • Supports rapid prototyping and development through intuitive, minimalist syntax

Cons: • Learning curve for developers accustomed to traditional HTML syntax and structure • Indentation sensitivity can cause issues in teams with inconsistent whitespace practices • Limited adoption outside Ruby ecosystem compared to other templating solutions • Debugging can be challenging when indentation errors create unexpected template output

Get Started with HAML

Transform your HTML template development with elegant, readable markup that eliminates verbosity and improves maintainability. Visit haml.info to discover how indentation-based templating revolutionizes web development productivity.

How It Compares

HAML offers a unique alternative to ERB and other templating engines by prioritizing readability and conciseness over traditional HTML syntax, making it ideal for teams that value clean, maintainable code. Unlike Slim or Jade templating languages, HAML maintains strong Ruby ecosystem integration while providing cross-platform implementations that work across multiple programming languages and frameworks.