Web developers build websites and ensure they perform reliably and efficiently. Every website or piece of software on the internet was built by a developer.

To become a Web Developer, you should have an understanding of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. It’s also recommended to learn about CSS and CSS frameworks. Developing these fundamental web development skills will give you the foundation and logic for communicating with programming languages.

In this guide, we’ll go through the basics of web development in detail, and show you the essential skills and tools you need to have to become a professional web developer.

What is web development?

The process of creating websites and apps for the internet, or for a private network called an intranet, is called web development.

Web development is mostly concerned with the code and programming that drives a website’s functioning rather than the aesthetics of the page. The task of a web developer is to design websites. Many web developers are also in charge of the website’s functionality and performance, even if their main responsibility is to make sure the site is aesthetically pleasing and simple to use.

All of the everyday online tools we use, from content management systems (CMS) to social media platforms and applications, from e-commerce websites to basic static web pages, are created by developers.

Choose a Web Development Specialization

In order to have a clear vision of who you want to become as a web developer, you must choose a specific area to focus on. Having this specific area will help guide you on what programming language you have to learn and how long it will take you.

There are 3 types of web developers: back-end developers(those concerned with what goes behind the scene), front-end developers(those who build the website user interface, where users can interact with the website), and full-stack developers (those who have mastery over the front end and back end of the website). Let’s take a closer look at the roles of all these developers.

Types of web developers

• Back End Web Developers: The framework of the website is created by back-end web developers, who also write and test the code. In addition, they might be in charge of overseeing access points for other people who have content management duties on websites.
• Front End Web Developers:The pages that users view and interact with on a website are the visual component that front-end web developers work on (also known as the user interface). They create the visual layout of every page, incorporate graphics, and improve the website with HTML and JavaScript.
• Full Stack Web Developers: Both front-end and back-end development tasks are performed by full-stack developers. These developers may work with companies that lack the funding for a large website team because they possess the expertise to create a comprehensive website.

Learn the Right Programming Languages

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For web development and web design, you will need to learn how to write in a few different programming languages, regardless of your area of focus. What are the most widely used programming languages, then?

Hypertext Markup Language, or HTML

Cascading Style Sheets, or CSS

JavaScript

Different computer programming languages and software applications are used in the creation of each website or web application. It is imperative that aspiring web developers master the fundamentals of programming.

The following are a few of the most widely used programming languages that can assist you in your web development journey:

1. HTML (HyperText Markup Language):

Because HTML establishes the structure of a webpage’s content, it is the foundation of web development. HTML, for instance, decides which parts of a page are the body text, headings, and title.

2. CSS (Cascading Style Sheets): 

is used to specify the end-user’s presentation of the HTML document. You can change the font, color, background, and other visual components of a web page with CSS.

3. JavaScript:

It’s a programming language that makes it possible for users and websites to communicate. For example, it can be used by developers to make interactive carousels and graphics.

4. PHP

is a programming language that is used on the server side to create dynamic and interactive web pages and apps. For instance, PHP enables cookies to be sent and received in order to collect form data and personalize site content.

5. Java:

The server-side programming language used to create mobile apps and websites is called Java. Making applets, or little programs that operate as a component of web pages, is another popular use for it.

6.Python:

This programming language is useful for creating websites and applications, among other things. It is utilized in web development to create server-side web applications. It’s regarded as one of the easiest programming languages to learn.

Gaining Experience to Build Your Online Portfolio

For web development opportunities, a web developer’s portfolio needs to highlight his best qualities. Now that you’ve learned and honed your web development skills, it’s time to start gaining practical work experience. This will improve your employability, help you become more familiar with the sector, and help you develop your computer programming skills.

Volunteering is the simplest place to start. For instance, you could make a straightforward website to advertise local events or a commercial website for a nearby retailer.

Even though this is volunteer labor, your experience will help you land a better job. You’ll also be able to support your neighborhood.

One such approach to obtain experience is by freelancing in web development. Promote your services on freelance marketplaces like Fiverr and PeoplePerHour.

Initially, gaining consumers could take some time, but with time and experience, this will become better.

As an alternative, you might work with other web developers and take part in open-source initiatives.

An electronic portfolio is a digital depiction of your skills, background, and accomplishments. Having one can help you monitor your professional development and establish your reputation as a qualified web developer in interviews.

Building a website from the ground up is the most effective approach to display this information. In addition to the content of your portfolio, the website itself will serve as a showcase for your web development abilities to potential clients.