7 Things You need to know about JavaScript

Are you looking to advance your tech career and stay ahead of the field? If you want to choose one language to start with, we highly recommend JavaScript. Everyone needs to learn it, because you will be surprise by how much JavaScript is used by popular websites you use daily.

You have questions, and we have answers! Here are 7 things you need to know about JavaScript:

1. What is JavaScript?

JavaScript is a programming language commonly used in web development. It was originally developed by Netscape as a means to add dynamic and interactive elements to websites.

2. Show me an example of how JavaScript is used in web development.

3. Why should I learn JavaScript? What makes it so special?

If you are interested in web development, why not learn JavaScript? JavaScript is what makes the website interactive. If you think of other development languages such as Ruby or Python as the breading of the cake, think of JavaScript as the frosting. It is responsible for the sweet user experience. As it becomes more prolific, JavaScript can be received as the prerequisite to other programming languages. You remember Flash? Right, Flash who! We have moved on and now JavaScript is the main software platform used for creating animations, graphics, and games development. For example, if you want your website to perform an action when the mouse is clicked or the arrow on the screen hovers over something, JavaScript is key. There are no other server-side language that could make that possible.

4. What can I build with JavaScript?

What are you thinking of building?!! Really, if it’s a web application you can build it using JavaScript. JavaScript can be used to build an entire website if used with Node.js. I am not here to explain each software component, but understand that JavaScript is used in nearly all web application development.

5. Can I build anything on mobile with JavaScript?

Yes, partnering with HTML5 and CSS3, JavaScript can bring any mobile web application life. HTML5 and CSS3 along with JavaScript, serves as the power source to many mobile development tools. One particular on is Sencha Touch. Sencha Touch uses HTML5, CSS3 and JavaScript to create apps that are used on Android, iPhone and iPad platforms. So, think about your experience playing the game application Candy Crush Saga. JavaScript helped in designing animated and graphic features to give you a memorable experience as the user.

6. Where can I learn JavaScript online or in a classroom?

You can learn JavaScript online from: Codecademy, Lynda.com, Code School, Treehouse, or Learn-JS.org. You can also check your community area to see if there are coding schools or organizations that offer the language. Atlanta’s Tech Talent South, General Assembly, Girl Develop It are a few organizations that offer JavaScript courses.

7. What kind of jobs can I get?

JavaScript Developer

Senior Software Engineer

Frontend Web Developer

UI Designer

UX Designer

JavaScript creates platforms that can engage a user and ensure that they remember the website and continue to revisit. From creating games, APIs, scrolling abilities, to so much more, JavaScript is certainly one coding language to have under your belt. So, what are you waiting for? Get on your way, and learn the language!