Why you should learn JavaScript
- Ideal for beginners: With no setup required, JavaScript offers an accessible start for newcomers. It’s the perfect way to get started with coding. JavaScript simplifies complex concepts, making it learner-friendly. And it has a more intuitive feel compared to higher-level languages.
- Foundation for other languages: Learning JavaScript paves the way for mastering other languages like Python, Java, and C++. JavaScript instills foundational programming styles like object-oriented and functional programming.
- Dominant programming language: JavaScript reigns as the most popular programming language. It’s the top choice for both front-end and back-end developers, which explains its widespread adoption in the industry.
- Compatibility in browsers: JavaScript is the default language of the internet, which is extremely important for browser functionality. This omnipresence makes JavaScript an essential skill for any web-related development.
- Beyond the web: JavaScript’s versatility extends beyond traditional web applications. It’s also instrumental in smart TVs, IoT, native mobile apps, and cross-platform desktop applications.
- Design and aesthetics: JavaScript can help you create engaging web pages with animations, interactive maps, and more. It’s crucial for building visually attractive and interactive user interfaces.
- Career opportunities: The demand for JavaScript developers is soaring. Expertise in JavaScript can lead to lucrative career prospects.
Prerequisites for learning Javascript
Starting with these prerequisites will ensure a smoother and more effective learning journey. JavaScript is immensely powerful and more complex than HTML and CSS. Understanding these technologies first is crucial, as they form the backbone of web development.
-
HTML and CSS: Are you wondering whether you can learn JavaScript without HTML and CSS? While you don’t really need to know HTML and CSS first, having an understanding of these will help you learn JavaScript faster. HTML is the skeleton underneath all web pages, which sets up the basic structure. And CSS adds the style—the colors, fonts, and layout. Both of these are fundamental to creating and understanding web content, making them indispensable when working with JavaScript.
-
Previous coding experience: If you have experience in other programming languages, it will aid in your transition to JavaScript. These skills provide a strong sense of how programming logic works.
-
Hands-on practice: The best way to learn JavaScript is by doing. In browsers like Google Chrome, access the “JavaScript Console” through the “Developer” option in the “View” menu. This kind of hands-on approach allows for immediate application and experimentation.
Start your JavaScript practice now
Are you eager to begin creating projects with JavaScript but unsure where to begin? Let’s outline a clear roadmap to confidently start learning JavaScript.
How to learn JavaScript
First, you need to craft a mind map of JavaScript topics to guide your learning. It not only deepens your understanding of concepts but also helps you connect related topics. Plus, building a mind map will allow you to see the intersections of common sub-topics, offering repeated exposure for better retention. Here are some tips to get started:
- Cover basics like variables, strings, numbers, and arrays.
- Focus on key features—like conditional statements, loops, functions, and events—in order to get an in-depth exploration of the language.
- Learn object theory and syntax, create custom objects, and work with JSON data, emphasizing JavaScript’s object-oriented nature.
- Examine the importance and application of asynchronous JavaScript when handling tasks like server resource fetching.
- Explore APIs for browser and OS manipulation, and examine their use in client-side JavaScript.
- Solve common JavaScript problems and challenges to avoid beginner mistakes.
A much smarter way to learn Javascript is through our beginner JavaScript courses that cover all the JavaScript basics. These courses will provide you with the structured learning and challenges you need to take your first steps into the world of JavaScript.
How long does it take to learn JavaScript?
With daily dedication, you can understand the JavaScript basics within three to six months. However, mastering it often takes years. It’s like learning a new language—you might start understanding and using basic phrases in a language like Spanish within six to nine months. Check out the JavaScript course timelines to get an estimate of how much time you need to spend on learning.