As a gateway and primary method for research, connection, education, and entertainment in the world, it’s no secret that the Internet isn’t going anywhere. In fact, it’s constantly evolving to meet user needs. And it’s web developers that are on the front lines of these improvements, helping to design, build, and manage websites for businesses and individuals alike. For those who are interested in becoming a web developer, the first step is learning two coding languages: HTML and CSS. These are the foundations of every website and can be learned for free from sites like Codecademy or FreeCodeCamp.
Once you have a solid grasp on these, you can move on to more advanced programming languages such as JavaScript, which will open up even more career opportunities for you in the world of web development. When you’re ready to take your web development skills to the next level, try Treehouse’s Techdegree program. It offers an all-in-one learning experience with hundreds of courses and more than 20 different topics — from JavaScript to Python to PHP. With a subscription-based model, it’s worth a look. Another good option is Pluralsight, an online learning platform that makes it easy to find the right course for you. Their Skill IQ test will assess your current coding abilities and recommend the best lessons for you to learn — saving you time and effort. With a subscription, you have access to their entire library of content for a low monthly fee, but they also offer a 10-day free trial.
Once you’ve learned the basics of coding and web development, it’s important to get some hands-on experience so that you can start building your portfolio and show off your hard work to potential employers. One great way to do this is by taking on a freelance project for a local business or non-profit organization. They’re often looking for new talent, and you can use your web development skills to help them improve their online presence. It’s also important to put a little extra effort into crafting your cover letter and resume when applying for web development jobs. Since many of these roles are entry-level, it’s crucial to stand out from other candidates by highlighting the unique skills that you bring to the table.
Make sure that your portfolio demonstrates your ability to create well-designed, user-friendly websites that are based on sound UX principles. Finally, it’s a good idea to join online communities for web developers like Stack Overflow and Twitter. Not only will this give you a chance to connect with other peers, but it will also provide you with a platform to ask questions and share your progress. Ultimately, the more you invest in your career as a web developer, the more successful you’ll be. Good luck!
