The JavaScript programming language is one of the most functional programming languages available. Not only is it necessary for front end development, but it is also used in backend programming as well. If you’re hoping to become a web developer or software engineer, you need well-polished JavaScript programming skills. But, is JavaScript hard to learn?
If you are a beginner asking yourself that question, this is the right article for you. Find answers in this tutorial to more questions like: What is JavaScript used for? Where can I learn JavaScript? And how long does it take to learn JavaScript? Let’s jump right in and learn all about this popular programming language.
What Is JavaScript Used For?
Because of how easy it is to implement the JavaScript command syntax, tech professionals have made several additions to its list of frameworks and features over the years. This has, in turn, extended its functionality. Developers and engineers around the globe have found JavaScript useful in both client-side and server-side programming.
- Web Page Design. JavaScript is one of the client-side programming languages, along with HTML and CSS. It is responsible for implementing the dynamic functionality of web pages. Tech experts use JavaScript to make web designs interactive to boost user experience. You can use JavaScript to create impressive animations, slideshow presentations, and short videos.
- Server-side Development. Experienced developers use JavaScript for backend development to create web servers and web applications with node.js. Node.js is a single-thread server environment that runs on various operating platforms. Node.js establishes a connection between the front end and backend of a website in real-time.
- Game Development. Frameworks such as Three.js and PixiJS enable JavaScript to be used for interactive games on web and mobile devices. Because of the complexities associated with running high-performance games on JavaScript programs, developers usually overlook this function.
- Application Development. You can use JavaScript frameworks to build interactive mobile, desktop, and web applications with impressive GUIs in fewer lines of code. These applications optimize user experience and can run on cross platforms. JavaScript frameworks used in mobile and native app development include React, Meteor, NativeScript, and jQuery.
- Robotics engineering. The functionalities of JavaScript have extended to include hands-on robotics and physical computing using frameworks such as node.js and cylon.js. Thanks to these frameworks, you can now write Java’s programs to run on real-time robotics systems.
How Hard Is JavaScript to Learn?
JavaScript is a simple language to learn, but it’s also a very broad language because of its many frameworks and libraries. This is an easily accessible and versatile language, so If you’re a beginner with no background in programming, it may take you some time to get accustomed to the basic programming practices and techniques it requires.
JavaScript is a front end language, but it is also a programming language, unlike the other front end languages such as HTML and CSS. For this reason, if you’re going to write programs with JavaScript, you should at least build your knowledge of business logic, asynchronous programming, troubleshooting, and an object-oriented approach to programming.
Is JavaScript Harder Than TypeScript?
Yes, JavaScript is easier to learn than TypeScript. You also must learn JavaScript before attacking TypeScript, as TypeScript can be pretty challenging to work with since it’s a more defined method of front end programming. TypeScript has a more rigid and structured typing system, unlike JavaScript with a flexible programming style.
This language is a superset of JavaScript, meaning all the features of JavaScript are present in TypeScript. TypeScript is ideal for large projects because of the compiler-time error feature to detect errors early enough. For this reason, if you hope to become a professional developer and secure top developer jobs, you need to also learn TypeScript.
Tips to Learn JavaScript
- Use project-oriented learning resources. JavaScript is a multipurpose language that you can apply to several projects. To hone your skills in this field, you need to learn by building. Find courses, training programs, and advanced tutorials that allow you to work on diverse projects. This is an excellent way to build your portfolio and your professional image.
- Focus on the essential features. You can’t master all the languages’ frameworks, libraries, features, and functions. You don’t need to learn all of it to start building interactive websites and applications. Tailor your learning to your particular project and key topics. Learn what the project demands. This way, your education is focused.
- Improve your troubleshooting skills. JavaScript has a flexible code styling system. As a result, you may encounter errors and bugs in your program. You’re likely to encounter issues with your spelling, code symbols, and functions. If improperly placed, the browser will reject your code. Even if it doesn’t, you’ll experience performance inefficiencies in your code.
- Join a community. New developers can be members of web development communities. You can learn from the discussion in forums and access helpful resources like sample codes, templates, articles, coding tools, and career advice. You’ll also find new project ideas and guides. You’ll learn from more experienced programmers how to tackle errors and bugs.
- Use code editors. Using JavasScript code editors reduces the need to troubleshoot. These tools were built to identify errors in your source code and correct them, facilitating the writing and reviewing process. You can use an open-source tool like the W3C JavaScript coding editor.
- Ask for code reviews. If you’re learning to code in a coding bootcamp or any other paid training platform, you should get regular code reviews as part of your training package. If you’re teaching yourself to code from the available resources online, you need to ask those more knowledgeable than you in advanced topics to help you review your code.
How Long Does It Take to Learn JavaScript?
The length depends on your learning capacity and accessible learning resources. Newbie developers can learn the basic and advanced concepts and hone their JavaScript skills through online resources within a couple of months. Learning the basics of JavaScript can occur within a week if you already have some technical background.
Where to Start Learning JavaScript
There are several ways to master this popular language. However, before learning JavaScript, you should have learned some markup languages, particularly HTML and the cascading style sheets language. These are the front end languages you need to master as an aspiring web developer. If you’re ready to build your programming career, the following are some of your options.
JavaScript Coding Bootcamps
A coding bootcamp is one of the best platforms to learn JavaScript. JavaScript coding bootcamps provide you with well-rounded knowledge. You get to learn directly from experts the right way to code. These platforms expose you to JavaScript’s latest developments and learning resources and offer you a project-based approach to mastering the field’s core concepts.
JavaScript Online Courses
A valuable alternative for learning JavaScript is through online courses. With online JavaScript courses, you can pick an aspect to specialize in and tackle additional topics step by step. The advantage is that it is more flexible and autonomous. You specify what you want to learn and enroll in any course or class that suits your demand and schedule.
JavaScript Degree Programs
You can learn JavaScript through a computer programming or web development bachelor’s degree program or software engineering master’s degree programs. These programs teach you the theoretical and technical aspects of JavaScript. You’ll tackle basic concepts, advanced concepts, and real-time projects.
JavaScript Free Resources
Sometimes, all you really need is access to relevant free online resources, and you can teach yourself JavaScript programming. This method is the most affordable and flexible of them all. However, you need to exercise discipline, dedication, and curiosity. Find platforms that give you access to free books, articles, and tutorials on Javascript.
Is It Hard to Get a Job with JavaScript?
No, it’s not. JavaScript is an all-purpose programming language so getting a job with this skill is not difficult if you know where to look and what to look for. Also, learning JavaScript gives you a wide array of career options. You probably know other front end languages if you know JavaScript, which provides leverage in the job market.
Jobs You Can Get with JavaScript Skills
- Java Developer. This job role doesn’t require knowledge of any other programming language. You’ll collaborate with and manage the efforts of other development teams, especially in writing and reviewing code for designing front end applications and GUIs. JavaScript developers earn an average salary of $107,529, according to ZipRecruiter.
- Web Designers. Web designers implement styling and interactive functionality to websites and web pages. These professionals are skilled in CSS and JavaScript and can help build the structure of websites and web pages when needed. Web designers earn an average salary of $60,202, according to the salary review by ZipRecruiter.
- Backend JavaScript Engineer. Backend JavaScript engineers work on the server-side of websites and create web servers, databases, and APIs used by front end developers. They integrate the efforts of the front end developers and ensure optimal user experience. According to ZipRecruiter, backend JavaScript engineers earn an average salary of $100,281.
- Full Stack Developer. Full stack developers are skilled in both backend and front end development. These professionals create websites, graphical user interfaces, servers, APIs, and databases. They can also create web and mobile applications using JavaScript programming. A full stack developer annually earns $102,744, according to ZipRecruiter.
- Front End Developer. Front end developers specialize in the client-side of the website. The role requires you to know all three major front end languages. These experts create web pages and applications, implement layouts and interactive functionality on the web pages. Front end developers earn an average salary of $94,639, according to ZipRecruiter.
Is JavaScript Worth Learning?
Yes, it is worth it for all those who wish to pursue careers in web development, software engineering, and robotics. There are an array of opportunities for professionals with this skill. With the advanced features constantly being integrated into the language, its functionality in diverse tech roles and projects is constantly increasing.
You don’t have to worry about your skills losing relevance in the job market. Just as JavaScript quickly reinvents itself based on the market demands, programmers and developers find it easy to keep up with its new trends and additional features. This language will enable you to develop a programming mindset to master the vast majority of languages out there.
FAQ: Is JavaScript Hard to Learn?
JavaScript is hard to learn if you’re trying to learn all the features and frameworks at once. This can make it overwhelming and confusing. The best approach is to learn through projects. You should only practice frameworks directly related to the project you’re working on. Also, because of how flexible the command syntax is, you might encounter challenges with bugs and errors.
Yes, you can. While this approach might be challenging, it is not an impossible task. Teaching yourself JavaScript works best when you’ve taken the time to theoretically review the language concepts. To facilitate your learning process, practice with real-world projects so you can hasten your transition into a professional JavaScript programmer.
Yes, JavaScript is enough to get you jobs. You can land a high-paying career as a JavaScript programmer with a reputable employer with just this skill. If you’ve taken the time to cover many JavaScript frameworks, you can specialize as a backend developer. Learning JavaScript makes it easy to pick up more programming skills along the way so you can diversify your career.
Choose between Python or JavaScript based on your immediate need. Students should just randomly pick programming languages to learn. Ensure they help you quickly build the skills you need to upscale your career. If you have to choose, choose the one more suited to your current technical capacity, level of experience, expected salary range, and career growth opportunities.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
