Learn programming
with curated Ruby projects

What is Ruby used for and why should I learn Ruby?

Ruby is a general-purpose scripting language used by front end and backend developers to develop web apps. While Ruby’s most well-known for web development, Ruby can also be used for data analysis, prototyping, and more. Some popular Ruby apps include GitHub, Shopify, and Airbnb. Is Ruby an interpreted language? Yes. What this means is that interpreters run through your code line by line and execute each command, as opposed to a compiled language, which requires you to compile code for the processor to execute. Interpreted languages are usually more flexible, have a smaller program size, and are platform independent. Should I learn Ruby? If you’re after an intuitive, extensive, and highly flexible language, Ruby is the one. Ruby is so intuitive to English speakers, even non-programmers can comprehend most Ruby coding examples. As extensibility goes, new functionalities can be added through integration with third-party or homegrown libraries. Since Ruby is an interpreted language, it runs equally well on platforms like Linux, UNIX, Windows, and Mac OS X. Not only is the language itself flexible, its usage is also very diverse — you can even find Ruby used in fields like biology and medicine! Lastly, it has a vibrant, supportive, and growing community so you can always find Ruby coding examples and mentors to help you grow.

Why should I practice Ruby 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 Ruby 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 Ruby 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 Ruby techniques, gained problem solving skills, learned how to ask questions, and have a finished project to show off.

How do I know which Ruby projects are best for learning Ruby?

The best way to learn Ruby is to practice Ruby by building as many projects as possible. There are three factors you should consider when picking the right Ruby project: your skill level, goals, and interest. You want to have a good idea of your skill level and choose Ruby practice projects that are not too easy or too hard for you. If you work on Ruby 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 Ruby projects that are just a little bit above your current skill level. Now, you also want to build Ruby projects that not only allows you to practice Ruby, but also lets you show off your skills on your portfolio. So think about the types of Ruby 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 Ruby projects that align with them. Lastly, you definitely want to choose Ruby projects that you’re actually interested in and feel connected to. Learning by building Ruby 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 Ruby project stand out in the crowd.

Can Ruby beginners learn by building Ruby projects?

Ruby projects are a great way for beginners to learn. Two major obstacles beginners face when learning Ruby are not knowing why you’re learning Ruby and losing motivation. By learning Ruby through building projects, you will be able to overcome both hurdles. When you’re learning Ruby, you may not know how to apply Ruby theories in the real world. But when working on beginner Ruby 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 Ruby project. These Ruby projects for beginners can also help you build up your portfolio early on. Each Ruby 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 Ruby 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 Ruby 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.