Question 1

What is JavaScript?

Accepted Answer

JavaScript is one of the most popular languages in the world. It's powerful and versatile, and with HTML and CSS, it forms the foundation of modern web development.

Question 2

What does JavaScript do?

Accepted Answer

JavaScript is mainly used to add animations and interactive elements to websites, but there are libraries and frameworks that extend its use into mobile development, game development, and more. You can even use it to build virtual reality applications and artificial intelligence.

Question 3

What kind of jobs can JavaScript get me?

Accepted Answer

JavaScript's ubiquity in web development means it's a must-have for Front-End, Back-End, and Full-Stack Developers. It can also help you land a job as a Game Developer or Mobile Developer.

Question 4

Why is JavaScript so popular as a first coding language?

Accepted Answer

JavaScript is a great choice for a first language. It's already built into most web browsers, so you can jump in and start coding without setting up an integrated development environment. Plus, its syntax is fairly easy to read — and it supports multiple programming styles, so much of what you'll learn is transferable to other languages.

Question 5

Why is JavaScript so popular?

Accepted Answer

JavaScript's versatility and libraries that extend its functionality enable it to find a place in almost any developer's skill set. It's also portable, so you can run its code across different operating systems, and supported by most modern browsers.

Question 6

What do I need to know before learning JavaScript?

Accepted Answer

JavaScript is fairly easy to pick up on, so you can jump in without prior knowledge. Still, it helps to have a basic understanding of fundamental programming concepts (which you can learn in our Code Foundations skill path). If you're learning JavaScript to build websites, you'll want to brush up on HTML and CSS first. HTML gives a website structure, CSS provides style, and JavaScript enables interactivity.

Question 7

Are Java and JavaScript the same?

Accepted Answer

While their names are similar, Java and JavaScript are two distinct languages. In fact, JavaScript was originally named Mocha, until Netscape changed it to capitalize on Java's popularity. Both languages have a wide range of applications, but JavaScript is primarily used in the web browser, and you'll find Java used in back-end development, Android app development, and scientific computing.

Another distinction lies in their syntax. JavaScript is more flexible and less rigid, so it's easy to get a project up and running. Java is a bit more complex, but Java apps tend to be more stable and have fewer bugs.

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