The q// and qq// quoting operators and here docs can make it very easy to visually separate your HTML from your Perl code. But why not go all the way and really separate your HTML and your Perl?

Unless your site is rather small and will stay that way, you really, really want to use templates. I know, I learned the hard way.

When you decide to use a templating system, don't roll your own, use one of the many excellent modules on CPAN. I know, I learned the hard way.

Which templating system to use? Either start with something simple like HTML::Template or Text::Template and when you are ready for more you can transistion to something more powerful like HTML::Mason or Template Toolkit. Or you could dive right in and learn one of the more powerful systems now.

By the way, you really do want to use strict, use CGI, and enable warnings and taint checking. The sooner you start using these tools, the happier you will be. Check out Ovid's CGI tutorial, you will be glad you did.

TGI says moo