Learn the Basics of Web Coding
Coding is the process of writing efficient programs that make computers do exactly what you want them to do. That’s why coding is the foundation of so much modern technology: it powers the control systems in cars, the AI stuff that makes smart assistants “think,” the sound processing in most electronic devices, and more. Web programming is just one particular form of coding, and it’s a big reason why you’ll find web development jobs near the top of many “Best Jobs” lists.
Web coding includes both front-end and back-end work, as well as website design and deployment. A wide range of specialized roles can be found in this field, including UI/UX designers, front-end developers, full stack developers, and DevOps engineers.
There are many online learning resources to help people learn web coding. Some are free, such as TutorialsPoint, while others charge a subscription fee, like Khan Academy and Treehouse. Some offer a variety of courses and resources, such as books, video lessons, or quizzes. Others specialize in teaching a specific type of coding, such as JavaScript or Python.
The simplest way to get started with web coding is to create a simple HTML document. This is a file that contains the basic code that defines the structure of a webpage. It begins with a declaration of the document type, known as the
For more advanced web development, a coding framework such as React, Angular, or jQuery is a great option to use. They provide a unified way to build and style websites, as well as make them responsive for different screen sizes. These frameworks also include a library of functions such as for-loops and while-loops to execute repeated code, and the ability to create more complex logic.
Another important aspect of web coding is understanding how to integrate APIs, or application programming interfaces. APIs allow website users to interact with third-party applications that can add functionality and value to a website. Examples of these are social media platforms, search engines, and payment gateways.
As a skill, web programming is highly transferable between career fields and industries. It can be used to build websites for a wide range of businesses and organizations, as well as personal blogs and portfolios. For example, a programmer who wants to start an online store can use their skills to develop a site that offers products or services and processes payments through secure systems.
The most successful web developers are keen problem-solvers, and they regularly come up with solutions and workarounds to keep projects running smoothly. This is why they’re often rewarded with competitive salaries and benefits. Web developers can also benefit from being part of a community that supports their professional growth. Many coding resources are available for professionals of all levels to join, such as online GitHub communities and forums, meetups, and conferences.