Raw HTML coding is the method preferred by the hard core web developer. However, if you’re more a web designer than developer you’d probably be happier with an WYSIWYG(What You See Is What You Get) interface like that of Microsoft Frontpage. In this category Macromedia Dreamweaver is unparalleled in functionality. FrontPage and Composer are usually used by newbies in the field, but if you want a robust, fun-filled, loaded app, DreamWeaver’s the only way to go.
For HTML text editing, I’d go with TextPad( http://www.textpad.com) in a heartbeat. Very, very simple interface with lots of add ons. Free evaluation copy can be downloaded for their website. The best part is this copy does not expire! I’ve been using TextPad(the free version:-))for over 2 years for all of my coding needs; HTML being just one of them. And I’ve had no reason to complain yet. HotDog software( http://www.sausage.com) is another one. Nice interface, user-friendly, but NOT free. So depending on your needs as well as wallet, you choose.
PS The pros and cons I mention below are for TextPad.