The Importance of Javascript

Javascript is the most popular programming languages worldwide. We explain its uses and the important of having a JS backgroud.

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You might continue to ask yourself, what programming language should I start with? How does a software begin their programming journey? Others might tell you to dive into HTML, CSS or Python. However, we have seen how starting with Javascript can propel ones programming career in record time. First of all, what is JS? JavaScript is a text-based programming language used both on the client-side and server-side that allows you to make web pages interactive. Where HTML and CSS are languages that give structure and style to web pages, JavaScript gives web pages interactive elements that engage a user. You might enjoy creating the structure of a web page, however to enhance the site to provide interactive qualities, the webpage must be built upon Javascript functions to allow for the site to become interactive for the user. There are many uses to using Javascript and in this article we will focus on the most important aspects.

What is Javascript used for? 

JavaScript is mainly used for web-based applications and web browsers. But JavaScript is also used beyond the Web in software, servers and embedded hardware controls. Here are some basic things JavaScript is used for:

1. Adding interactive behavior to web pages

JavaScript allows users to interact with web pages. There are almost no limits to the things you can do with JavaScript on a web page – these are just a few examples:

  • Show or hide more information with the click of a button
  • Change the color of a button when the mouse hovers over it
  • Slide through a carousel of images on the homepage
  • Zooming in or zooming out on an image
  • Displaying a timer or count-down on a website
  • Playing audio and video in a web page
  • Displaying animations
  • Using a drop-down hamburger menu

2. Creating web and mobile apps

Developers can use various JavaScript frameworks for developing and building web and mobile apps. JavaScript frameworks are collections of JavaScript code libraries that provide developers with pre-written code to use for routine programming features and tasks—literally a framework to build websites or web applications around. 

Popular JavaScript front-end frameworks include React, React Native, Angular, and Vue. Many companies use Node.js, a JavaScript runtime environment built on Google Chrome’s JavaScript V8 engine. A few famous examples include Paypal, LinkedIn, Netflix, and Uber!

3. Building web servers and developing server applications

Beyond websites and apps, developers can also use JavaScript to build simple web servers and develop the back-end infrastructure using Node.js.

4. Game development

Of course, you can also use JavaScript to create browser games. These are a great way for beginning developers to practice their JavaScript skills.

You might be thinking to yourself that learning to program is going to be a daunting task, however, with Javascript you will find it to be challenging but it won’t be too difficult. Logic is a very important knowledge to hold when writing Javascript code. We have seen how it can be challenging but fun at the same time due to the interactive aspects you will be integrating with the structure you are given. 

Why should you use Javascript over other languages?

  • Javascript is the only programming language native to web browser
  • Javascript is the most popular language
  • There’s a low threshold to get started
  • It is a fun language to learn

Javascript can be used as a front-end language or back-end, with Node.js we are able to work on the back-end of the site. However, Javascript is a client-side language, which technically means that it is a front-end language. When using Javascript for full stack qualities we have seen that it creates great practice for a cohesive website/application. With an application or website using the same language it is easier to manage, maintain, update and build with one single team. Front-end allows for the application to and webpage to be dynamic. For example with validating submission forms, updating certain pieces of information on the page without updating the entire page, show menus, and display animations. When used for back-end it allows for the server to handle front-end date updates and build network applications to process simultaneous user requests.