What It Is
"Above the fold" is a phrase borrowed from newspapers, where the most important headlines sat on the top half of the folded front page. On a website, it means the area people see as soon as the page loads, before scrolling. The exact amount varies by device, since a phone screen shows much less than a desktop monitor.
Why It Matters for Your Business
This space does a lot of work. In the first few seconds, a visitor decides whether they are in the right place. A salon’s homepage that shows a clear headline, a welcoming photo and a "Book now" button right away tells visitors what to do. A page that opens with a large logo and nothing else makes people guess.
Good to Know
Do not cram everything above the fold. People do scroll when the top of the page gives them a reason. Focus on what you offer, who it is for and one clear next step. Then check the top of the page on a phone, since that is where the space is smallest.