From zero to Web Developer

Disclaimer

Before I begin this short, practical article, I want to make a disclaimer. There are several paths you can take when learning web development. This is just one of them. The one I would choose if I had to start over.

Who is this article intended for?

These steps start from the very beginning, making them perfect for beginners in web development.

Let’s get started!

1. Choose your text editor

Many text editors are available, including Visual Studio Code, Sublime Text, WebStorm, PHPStorm, and more. I recommend Visual Studio Code because it’s open source, packed with extensions, and backed by a huge community.

2. Learn HTML

In simple terms, HTML is the skeleton of a web page. Think of it like the walls of a house. There are plenty of learning resources available, and FreeCodeCamp is definitely one of the best.

3. Learn CSS

CSS is basically the style of a website. It defines colors, layout, fonts, and more. Don’t rush because it may seem easy at first but it takes time to master. Again, I recommend FreeCodeCamp.

4. Get better at CSS

Still not comfortable with CSS? You can take this free CSS course by Google Developers. Link: web.dev/learn/css.

5. Learn JavaScript

JavaScript lets you add interactivity and dynamic features to your website, and a great place to start is the free course at Mozilla Developer Network.

6. Build projects

Improve your coding skills by building real projects. If you need ideas, try creating a personal portfolio, a to-do list app, a weather widget, a calculator, or a blog page. These projects are perfect for beginners in web development.

7. Learn to use the command line.

There are several reasons why you should learn how to use the command line. Here are a few… You will need it to install packages needed for coding. To run the commands like starting the development server… You can use this course by Open Classrooms: openclassrooms.com/en/courses/4614926-learn-the-command-line-in-terminal

8. Learn how to use Git and GitHub.

For a clear and practical quick reference, check out this Git cheat sheet. It covers all the essential commands and is available as a free downloadable PDF: Git Cheat Sheet.

9. Choose a JavaScript framework

React and Vue are the most popular frameworks right now, so I suggest starting with one of them. You can learn another framework later. Brad Traversy has crash courses for both. Here is the link to his YouTube channel: youtube.com/@TraversyMedia.

10. Build more projects

Try building something from scratch this time. Here are a few more ideas to get you started: a simple chat app, a recipe book, or a budgeting tracker.

11. Publish your projects online

Are you happy with what you’ve built? Deploy your projects. Services like Netlify and Vercel make it easy.

12. Make a CV

There are plenty of free CV builders available online to help you create a professional resume.

13. Prepare for coding interviews

You can use LeetCode to practice coding challenges. For more platforms to prepare for technical interviews, check out this curated list of web development resources.

14. Apply for jobs

There are many resources available to help you with your job search. Take advantage of guides, job boards, and communities to find opportunities that match your skills.

Bonus Step: Join a Community

I started a friendly developer community on X (formerly Twitter) where beginners and pros support each other. Join us here. Being part of a community helps you learn faster and stay motivated.

Quick Recap!

1. Choose your text editor
2. Learn HTML
3. Learn CSS
4. Get better at CSS.
5. Learn JavaScript
6. Build projects
7. Learn how to use the command line
8. Learn how to use Git and GitHub
9. Choose a JavaScript framework
10. Build more projects
11. Publish your projects online
12. Make a CV
13. Prepare for coding interviews
14. Apply for jobs
15. Join a community

Did I miss anything? Found an error? Have a question? Contact me and we’ll figure it out together.