TLDR: JavaScript is one of the most beginner-friendly and widely used programming languages, making it an excellent choice for new coders. With free courses, YouTube tutorials, and coding challenges, learning JavaScript has never been easier. Whether you want to build websites, apps, or games, JavaScript provides a solid foundation for launching a tech career.
Are you new to the world of coding and software development? JavaScript is a fantastic first programming language to learn. Here's why it's a great choice for beginners looking to dive into programming and web development.
Why Learn JavaScript?
JavaScript is widely used, beginner-friendly, and versatile. JavaScript is a good coding language for beginners because:
- It’s everywhere: JavaScript powers the web. It's essential for building websites and web applications.
- It’s relatively easy to learn: JavaScript has a forgiving syntax compared to other programming languages, making it accessible for beginners.
- It’s versatile: Knowing JavaScript allows you to create websites, mobile apps, and even games.
Top Resources for Learning JavaScript
Thanks to the wealth of resources available, learning JavaScript has never been easier. Whether through online courses, YouTube tutorials, or coding challenges, beginners have plenty of opportunities to practice and refine their skills.
Take Free Online JavaScript Courses for Beginners
Taking online courses is an excellent first step to learning JavaScript. There are many different courses available for free. Many options are self-paced, so you don't have to worry about falling behind or feeling rushed.
Here's a list of the top three free online JavaScript courses for beginners, ideal for those preparing to apply to a coding bootcamp:
- Learn JavaScript (Scrimba): This course offers over 140 interactive coding challenges and four projects. It uses a hands-on approach to learning JavaScript fundamentals in a 10.38-hour course.
- JavaScript Algorithms and Data Structures (freeCodeCamp): This comprehensive course covers basic JavaScript, ES6, regular expressions, basic data structures, Object-Oriented Programming, and functional programming. It's interactive and concludes with a certificate upon completion.
- Learn JavaScript (Codecademy): This course provides a concise introduction to JavaScript fundamentals in about 20 hours. It includes 11 lessons covering conditionals, functions, arrays, and more, making it ideal for absolute beginners.
Follow Along with JavaScript Tutorials on YouTube
Many free JavaScript video tutorials and YouTube channels cater to beginners. Here are two popular choices:
- Code Platoon: As a nonprofit coding bootcamp, Code Platoon makes all of our programs available on our YouTube channel. This includes our Intro to JavaScript course. (We also have an Intro to Python course available.)
- Clever Programmer: Rafeh Qazi offers fun, interactive JavaScript tutorials with a focus on web development on his channel.
Practice with JavaScript Coding Challenges
Practicing coding challenges helps reinforce JavaScript concepts and problem-solving skills. A great platform to check out is:
- Codewars: The website features a variety of challenges with a strong community aspect. Users can create and solve JavaScript problems collaboratively.
JavaScript: Your First Step to a Career in Tech
JavaScript's flexibility and extensive, supportive community make it an outstanding first choice for individuals venturing into coding and software development. For those at the starting point of their tech journey, learning JavaScript is a strategic move. It lays a solid foundation for a career in technology.
As you grow more comfortable with the basics, consider taking the next step with an Immersive coding bootcamp like Code Platoon. Bootcamps provide structured training, with the hands-on experience to help you transition into a successful tech career.
