Web development is one of the most promising and up-and-coming careers you can select today. The Internet and web-based commerce are becoming more critical every day, and web designers and developers are in high demand. Web developers tackle tough and rewarding assignments, enjoy high salaries, and peer respect. But, how long does it take to learn web development?
In this guide, we teach you exactly what you need to know. This process will help you, whether your goal is to become a full-stack, backend, or front-end developer.
When you start learning web development, it isn’t easy. However, this guide gives you a good idea of the best way to learn.
What is a Web Developer?
A web developer is someone who designs, builds, and maintains a website. Simply put, they create a website or web application for clients or themselves.
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Web developers have the tools and knowledge to create and design websites from scratch. They have a strong understanding of UX design, create prototypes, and provide website maintenance.
Through web development, you have the potential to work in a long-lasting and fulfilling career. Web development allows you to create, update, and enhance websites as a freelancer or for a company.
Why Should You Learn Web Development?
As a career, there are several benefits to learning web development. Below is a list of a few reasons why you should learn it.
Web Development is in Demand
Web development, like many technology careers, is in high demand. As a result, web developers often command high wages for their work, both as freelancers and working for big companies. Today, more businesses need web development than ever before. Knowing how to create a website opens up a world of opportunity for you.
Web Developers Can Work Remotely
Relocating isn’t a necessity when working in web development. This career allows you to work from the comfort of your own home. Many web developers work on their own time. You could even travel the world while still making an impressive income.
It’s Part of a Profitable Industry
The technology industry is growing at an incredible rate. It’s practically a requirement for businesses to have some form of online web presence. Many tech startups need a web developer. Even established companies need web developers to update and optimize pre-existing websites.
You Can Create Websites for Yourself
Another significant benefit of web development is the ability to create your own websites. Some people use web development to create their own content, make a shop to sell items, or design a website for passive income.
These are just some benefits that come with learning web design and development.
Once you learn how to build websites from scratch, you’ll be able to create web elements and applications that aren’t available anywhere else.
How Long Does It Take to Be a Web Developer
It takes around 5 to 6 months to learn web development from scratch. This is if you spend a few hours studying every day.
Some people learn in just a few months. However, it takes others a little over a year. It all depends on what resources you use and how much you study.
The Best Ways to Learn Web Development
There are several resources, both online and in-person to teach you web development. Below is a list of the more common methods of learning.
College and University
It’s not uncommon for someone to go to college to learn web development. While you don’t need four years to create websites, college does give you general knowledge over multiple subjects. This helps broaden your understanding of the field as a whole. Having a degree corresponding to web development may help with finding employment.
Online Courses
Today, there are several online resources to help you learn web development. This includes free online courses from websites such as FreeCodeCamp, Coursera, and Codeacademy.
Some courses, such as Udemy, Team Treehouse, and Lynda offer paid classes for you to choose from. Many of these courses provide certificates upon completion.
Coding Bootcamps
Coding bootcamps are alternatives to traditional higher education. These programs teach you everything you need to know to work as a web developer. Some programs take six months or fewer to complete.
Coding bootcamps teach you how to become a professional web developer, but they also have several additional resources. Some of the best coding bootcamps come with mentors, career coaching, and job placement guarantees.
How to Learn Website Development
To become a successful web developer, you need to understand the fundamentals of creating a website. There are aspects of web development that everyone must learn, which includes programming, design, and structure. Below is a step-by-step guide on web development.
To begin, you’ll need to master the terminology. You should learn the difference between frontend, backend, and full-stack web development. Learn about static and dynamic pages.
Understand how web pages are laid out. You’ll also want to dig into web design principles. Seeing things from a designer’s perspective helps make development smoother.
Picking up the SEO basics is an excellent tool for your kit. Make sure to become familiar with web design trends so that you can stay on top of the latest styles and approaches. Getting all the fundamentals down takes some time, but you can make a good start on all of it in about ten days.
Learn HTML, CSS, and JavaScript
The most important step in becoming a web developer is to learn the basics of CSS and HTML. The reason for this is simple.
HTML is what determines the structure of a website. CSS is what determines the way a website looks. Together, these two elements are the basis for all websites and web applications.
After you learn HTML and CSS, the next step is learning how to code. The coding language you use, such as JavaScript, is what makes the website function.
Many developers learn the JavaScript scripting language. However, there are several programming languages out there. Below are some languages that work well for web development.
Python: Python is a programming language designed for ease of use. It’s more forgiving when it comes to programming, which means you won’t run into as many errors. However, it isn’t as common as some of the more popular languages. This means you may find difficulty finding help or learning resources.
Ruby: Ruby isn’t just a popular programming language, but it is practically made for development. Some of the most popular websites online today were built with Ruby. This includes GitHub, Hulu, Shopify, Basecamp, and even Twitter.
C++: Compared to other languages, C++ has a steep learning curve. It may not be best for beginners new to programming. However, the versatility of C++ makes it a great language to learn. If you’re interested in going into other tech fields, consider learning this language.
How to Improve Your Web Development Skills
Being a professional web developer is an ongoing task that never ends. Even after you gain an understanding of development, there is still more to learn.
Learn Additional Programs
In addition to programming languages, you’ll need to work with other applications, such as Sublime Text and Adobe Photoshop. Master your lockup skills with Mockplus or a similar platform.
Also, learn about content management systems. Specifically, research WordPress. Today, most websites utilize WordPress.
Create Responsive Sites
Another important thing to learn is creating responsive sites. Today, it isn’t uncommon for someone to find your website through a desktop, smartphone, or tablet. Creating a responsive website means elements of the site change relative to the size of the screen. Responsive design is imperative for professional work.
Research UI and UX
If you have an interest in development, you should research user interface (UI) and user experience (UX). Don’t worry, you won’t need to become a designer yourself. However, having an understanding of UI and UX design makes the development process easier.
There are many other things to learn, such as SQL, PHP, and getting more in-depth with SEO. With practice and patience, you’ll master these concepts in no time.
Becoming a web developer is your ticket to a high paying and satisfying career. It is not something you can do overnight. This guide should help you start down the right path.
The next step is to take this information and start learning. In a matter of months, you too can learn web development and begin your new career.
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