top
Positioning
How far from the top edge the element sits.
| How to write it | top: auto; |
|---|---|
| Common values | auto, 0, 50% |
| Inherited | No — it stops at this element |
| Part of | inset |
| Category | Positioning |
How to read this
- An inherited property only needs writing once on the parent — every child picks it up. Most text properties work this way.
- A shorthand resets whatever you leave out. Writing background: red alone also wipes a background image you set earlier.
- When rules collide, the more specific selector wins; only when specificity ties does source order decide.
- Animate transform and opacity for smoothness. Changing width or top forces the layout to be recalculated.
Frequently asked questions
Q. What is the CSS top property?
How far from the top edge the element sits.
Q. How do you write top?
As top: auto; Common values include auto, 0, 50%.
Q. Is top inherited?
No. It applies only where you write it, so each element needs its own declaration.
Q. Which shorthand sets top?
inset can set it in one line.