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JavaScript (or JS) is a programming language that, along with HTML and CSS, is at the center of the world wide web. It was created with the intention of improving the user’s experience and over the years has become an integral piece of programming in order to connect the front-end and back-end. JS is also responsible for creating more interactive and engaging web pages which makes it so favorable to use and learn.
Netscape and developer Brendan Eich developed JavaScript (JS) in 1995 with a similar syntax as Java. The name has caused many to think that JavaScript and Java are more similar than they actually are. Like Java, JavaScript does include curly brackets for use in its syntax and some shared libraries, but one difference is JS uses dynamic typing so written code is checked and debugged at its runtime. It is also an object-oriented language.
Yes, JavaScript is a programming language, like Python, C++, and Java. More specifically, JavaScript is categorized as a scripting language, which means it can be used to write scripts. Scripts are small pieces of a program that automate tasks. While scripting languages are not that different from other programming languages, the main difference is that scripting languages are not compiled (translated into machine code).
JavaScript is very useful for creating content-rich web pages with interactive elements like user-entry fields, clickable icons, and drop-downs. According to Wikipedia, over 97% of websites use JS on the client-side of their webpages. Major web browsers have their own engines so that the language can be run by users on any device. With the variety of established frameworks, the number of uses for JS continues to grow.
Developers now use this for:
These uses are enough reasons in themselves to learn this beneficial language, but there are even more benefits for adding JS to your resume.
This is a higher-level language and the syntax closely mirrors English. This makes it easier to learn, understand, and write. There also is not a required set up to run programs written with JS and it runs directly in the browser. It is a great first language but also one that experienced programmers can learn quickly.
The TIOBE index was ranked the seventh most used language. This is largely due to the ease of use but also because almost all web pages are written with JavaScript to enhance user experience.
The fact that JS can be used for desktop and mobile applications and code can be reused for multiple platforms is a huge draw for using this language. All of the major browsers like Chrome and Firefox are equipped for JavaScript.
After a 2008 update, this is now the fastest dynamic language. Since it runs and loads in the browser, JS is relatively quick to load its effects. There are also a number of ways to reduce load time thanks to the supportive developer community.
Since it has been around 25 years, there is a large community of support with forums and resources. There are almost 1.5 million libraries which makes it easy for coders to utilize and write code at a faster pace. This can also help with debugging issues since so much code has already been written and tested.
With JS web pages are able to play both audio and video and use drop-down menus. The ability to create visual animations makes it a no-brainer when it comes to web development. JavaScript continues to evolve and developers are regularly finding new uses for the language as technology advances. It is an easy decision to learn this syntax since it is found on virtually every web page and beyond. It is used now by tech professionals including front-end developers and back-end developers, as well as UX designers.
So how do you learn JavaScript? Start with the basics – check out our JavaScript 101 page for tips on getting started! Ready to dive into a full educational experience? Below is a list of bootcamps that can help you master the language, with curriculums focused on learning everything from writing the syntax to using libraries and frameworks in different applications. Compare bootcamps to find the one that is right for your needs and schedule.
You can learn the basics of JavaScript in just a few days if you put your mind to it and spend a good chunk of the day focusing on learning. However, it will take you at least 3 months to truly understand the ins and outs of JavaScript and code fluently. Full-time coding bootcamps are generally about 3 months. If you want to learn JavaScript but aren’t able to dedicate a full-time schedule to learning, you can still master JavaScript in 6 to 9 months by dedicating a few concentrated hours a week to learning and practice.
We’ve got plenty of additional resources to learn about JavaScript and its uses. Hungry for more? Check out these pages:
20 Best JavaScript Projects for Beginners
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Best Coding Languages to Learn in 2022
