FAQ: Add Code to your Lens

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Have a question about HTML, JavaScript, Flash, or iFrames?

Since Squidoo has gotten bigger and our users have gotten savvier, many lensmasters have question about adding codes to their lenses. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about adding code to lenses.

If you were directed here by Tisha, our awesome bug sorter outer, and you still weren't able to find an answer, reply to Tisha's email, and she'll take a further look.

Photo by clix

How can I use HTML in my lens? 

Squidoo does allow basic HTML in several modules, such as the write/text and test list modules, and the link list description. You can also use HTML in the intro module.

For help using basic HTML to jazz up your website and add links, check out these lensmaster run how-to lenses.
Basic HTML for Squidoo
By N376
Advanced HTML for Squidoo
By N376
Simple HTML Tricks
By Magicality
My Favorite CSS Tricks for Lenses
By thefluffanutta
Linking Tips
By thefluffanutta
Super Advanced HTML Tips and Tricks
By Randell
HTML Code
By Twobit

How do I add counter code to my lens? 

Every third-party (not run by Squidoo) counter code is different. If it uses HTML, you can try entering it in a write/text module to use it. Squidoo does not support flash, javascript, iframes, or other advanced code.

You can keep track of your lens stats through Squidoo! To view statistics about a lens, click on stats next to the lens name on your dashboard, or click the My Stats tab and select a lens from the drop-down menu.

Image by modish

I can't get HTML to work on a certain module 

Oops, it's possible that module doesn't support HTML. If your code will work in a text/write module, but not the module of your choice, that module doesn't support HTML.

How do I insert special characters? 

Squidoo is not designed to support special characters, but some lensmasters have had luck getting help at our forum: Inserting special characters

One problem with displaying special characters is that not all computers and browsers support the characters. But if you'd like to give it the good ole HTML try, check here for a code.

The best way to display special characters using Squidoo is to create a graphic. You may be able to find someone at the forum to assist you with this.

Image by svilen001

How can I add PayPal buttons to my lens? 

Lensmaster thefluffanutta has written a lens on adding PayPal buttons to your own lens.

How to Add PayPal Buttons to your Lens

How do I link to Squidoo from my website/blog/etc? 

There are several ways to link to your lens from your website, blog, or other social network page.

To add a basic text link:
<A HREF="http://www.squidoo.com/yourlensurl">Your text here</A>

To add a button, visit our button page.

How do I add an image to a module? 

Several great Squidoo modules are designed to showcase your images, such as the text/write, Polaroid, and Flickr modules. If you're interested in adding images to other modules that support HTML, or adding images in the middle of a text/write module, you can do so using some simple HTML code. Check out these peer supported lenses that will teach you how!
Adding Links to your Images
By Loyalis
Easily add great images to your lens
By nature-photographer

How do I add Google AdSense code to my lens? 

AdSense code is generated automatically by Squidoo, so there's nothing you need to do. Read #9 here to see how this gets divvied up.

My *whatever* widget won't work on Squidoo 

Sorry, many don't since we don't allow these additional codes. We can't provide one-on-one support for third-party codes, but someone in our peer-driven forum may know a work-around hack.

Can I break something by using code? 

You can't break anything for good, but you can lock yourself out a module or lens.

For example, adding code that is broken and doesn't close the tags properly can cause problems. As the browser is reading the code, it can't close the tags within the module, so it puts your code and the lens code together. This can cause goofy appearances on your lens.

If this happens, try deleting the code and starting over, and asking for help at our peer-driven forum.

Need more help?

Ask your HTML/CSS Mentor

Tips not working? 

If your question isn't due to a glitch on your lens, you can ask for help at our peer-driven forum.

SquidU Forum

If you still can't find the answer, or your lens is glitchy, file a bug report.

Do you have a tip for this lens? 

If you have a tip, suggestion, or helpful link for this lens, let us know!

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by SquidooKimberly

I'm Kimberly, your Community & Charity Organizer on Squidoo. Check out these lenses for more helpful tips on using your favorite internet service - Sq... (more)
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