What is JavaScript used for and why should I learn it?
JavaScript is a text-based programming language that is mainly used by front end developers for web-based apps and web browsers. It works across all major browsers, which makes JavaScript one of the most universal languages.
JavaScript is the only programming language that is native to the web browser, making it incredibly important for web developers to learn JavaScript. But is Javascript hard to learn? Not at all. JavaScript uses a forgiving and flexible syntax, which makes it one of the best programming languages for beginners. Plus, you can get going right away without having to install multiple programs.
JavaScript has been one of the most popular languages in the past decade. It’s the chosen language for tech giants like Facebook and YouTube and tech startups like Notion and FabFitFun. They use JavaScript to generate interactive web pages and dynamic content.
What is JavaScript used for besides frontend development? Javascript uses range from building scalable network apps on the server-side with Node.js, creating mobile apps, to developing games. Therefore, learning Javascript will give you flexibility in your career as a developer.
Why should I practice JavaScript by building projects?
Project-based learning is a method of learning where you learn a skill through working on a project. This type of learning allows you to learn not only the theory, but also how to apply those skills.
By building a JavaScript project, you'll practice the high-level logic of your code and project, and see how each individual line can impact your application. You will also gain problem-solving skills and how to fix it. With so many JavaScript projects available, finding an idea that interests you will make the learning process more fun and sustainable.
When you finish building a project, you will have learned and practiced JavaScript techniques, gained problem solving skills, learned how to ask questions, and have a finished project to show off.
How do I know which JavaScript projects are best for learning JavaScript?
The best way to learn JavaScript is to practice JavaScript by building as many projects as possible. There are three factors you should consider when picking the right JavaScript project: your skill level, goals, and interest.
You want to have a good idea of your skill level and choose JavaScript practice projects that are not too easy or too hard for you. If you work on JavaScript projects that are too easy, you won’t progress in your coding abilities. However, if you choose projects that are too difficult, you may get stuck, never finish the project, and feel discouraged. Therefore, you want to choose JavaScript projects that are just a little bit above your current skill level.
Now, you also want to build JavaScript projects that not only allows you to practice JavaScript, but also lets you show off your skills on your portfolio. So think about the types of JavaScript projects you want to put on your portfolio and jobs you’re interested in as a developer. Think about what your long-term goals are and pick JavaScript projects that align with them.
Lastly, you definitely want to choose JavaScript projects that you’re actually interested in and feel connected to. Learning by building JavaScript projects you’re interested in will help you stay motivated. You’ll also be more likely to want to go above and beyond to make your JavaScript project stand out in the crowd.
Can JavaScript beginners learn by building JavaScript projects?
JavaScript projects are a great way for beginners to learn. Two major obstacles beginners face when learning JavaScript are not knowing why you’re learning JavaScript and losing motivation. By learning JavaScript through building projects, you will be able to overcome both hurdles.
When you’re learning JavaScript, you may not know how to apply JavaScript theories in the real world. But when working on beginner JavaScript projects, you immediately learn how each line of code impacts your project. By giving theory context, you’ll understand how to apply theories and find more resources to complete your JavaScript project. These JavaScript projects for beginners can also help you build up your portfolio early on. Each JavaScript project you finish can be incorporated into your portfolio to demonstrate your new skills.
Another issue that often comes up for beginners is losing motivation. However, when it comes to projects, you can pick a beginner JavaScript project that you’re interested in. Not only will you be more motivated when you work on something interesting, you’ll also want to continue to improve the project. As your JavaScript project comes together, the sense of accomplishment will give you the momentum to keep going, even when things get hard. Additionally, you’ll learn how to approach problems from multiple angles and teach yourself how to search for answers. The ability to problem-solve is arguably one of the most important skills a developer should have.