Tips for Becoming a Better Web Developer

If you’re reading this, you’re probably already interested in web development. Maybe you’ve been coding for a while, or maybe you’re just getting started. Either way, there’s always room for improvement.

Here are 10 tips that will help you become a better web developer:

1. Use a code editor

A code editor is a text editor with additional features specifically for coding. These features might include syntax highlighting, code completion, and error checking. Using a code editor can help make your code more readable and easier to write. It can also help you avoid errors and find potential problems with your code. Some popular code editors include Sublime Text, Atom, and Visual Studio Code.

2. Use a CSS preprocessor

A CSS preprocessor is a tool that lets you write CSS using a more convenient syntax. This processed CSS then gets compiled into regular CSS that browsers can understand. Using a CSS preprocessor can make your CSS more readable and easier to maintain. It can also help you avoid repetition in your CSS and keep your styles DRY (don’t repeat yourself). Popular CSS preprocessors include Less and Sass/SCSS.

3. Use a JavaScript library or framework

JavaScript libraries and frameworks are collections of pre-written JavaScript code that you can use to simplify common tasks in your web development projects. Using one of these can save you time and effort by letting you focus on the unique parts of your project instead of re-inventing the wheel every time you need to do something commonplace. Some popular JavaScript libraries and frameworks include jQuery, AngularJS, React, and Vue.js .

4 . Learn HTML5 & CSS3

If you’re just getting started with web development, it’s important to learn the latest standards for HTML and CSS . These are the technologies that power the structure and style of websites respectively . While older versions of HTML and CSS are still used by some developers , learning the newest versions will give you an edge when seeking employment or contracting opportunities . Additionally , many new features in HTML5 & CSS3 cannot be replicated using older versions , so learning them is essential if you want to take advantage of everything modern web browsers have to offer .

5 . Get familiar with the command line

The command line is a text – based interface for interacting with computer operating systems . It allows users to issue commands which tell the computer what action to take . For example , the ls command lists all of the files in the current directory while the mkdir command creates a new directory . While it might seem like something only experienced developers need to worry about , learning basic command line commands can be very helpful for web developers since it allows them direct access to the server where their website is hosted as well as other computers on the same network without having to go through a graphical interface .

6 . Understand how browsers work

Browsers are perhaps the most important piece of software for web developers since they are responsible for displaying websites to visitors . A good understanding of how browsers work will allow you develop websites that load quickly display correctly regardless of which browser they’re viewed in , and take advantage of new features as they’re introduced without having to wait for browser vendors implement them . In short , it makes developer’s lives much easier !

7 . Know your version control systems

Version control systems are tools that allow developers track changes made to their codebase over time as well as collaborate with other developers on projects . The most popular version control system currently is git but there are others such as Mercurial & Bitbucket Learning how to use at least one version control system is essential for any developer since it makes working on projects much easier & safer .

8 . Make sure your code is clean & well organized

Regardless of how well written & efficient your code may be , if it’s messy & difficult to read then it will be hard for other developers ( or even yourself ! ) To work with it down the road . Always take some time after finishing writing new code or making changes existing codebase ensure that everything is cleanly organized & easy follow before moving on otherwise debugging or adding new features will be needlessly difficult later on This also includes comments ! Adding clear & concise comments throughout your code will help immensely anyone trying figure out what specific lines or blocks do later on even if that person is yourself !

9 . Take advantage of resources online

There are tons amazing resources available online free charge specifically web development whether ‘s articles tutorials blog posts videos etcetera Don ‘ t be afraid explore different options find ones fit learning style best And once find ones love feel free share them others There ‘ s nothing wrong admitting don ‘ t know everything – even most experienced developers don ‘ t – but what separates great developers from good ones willingness learn from mistakes continuously improve their craft by keeping up date latest trends technologies

10 Bonus : Find mentors

Last but not least finding mentors extremely beneficial both early stages career well later stages Experienced mentors can provide insights gained from years industry knowledge They also act support system answer questions guide when needed Having someone believe confidence skills goes long way If don ‘ t know anyone personally who could fill role consider joining online communities forums related industry These provide great opportunity not only find mentors but also build relationships fellow professionals As saying goes ” two heads better than one ” so never hesitate ask advice reach out others After all we ‘ re all here help each grow succeed following tips improve skillset order become better developer