The 5 Best Approaches to Rapidly Learn JavaScript (For Beginners)

Describing JavaScript as a developer’s indispensable companion might not be an overstatement — it’s a language that’s hard to do without. According to a recent survey by Stack Overflow, JavaScript stands as the world’s most popular programming language, with a staggering 69.7 percent of 90,000 surveyed developers naming it their go-to skill. JavaScript is a foundational skill, from fledgling junior developers to seasoned specialists.
Self-Guided Websites and Courses
The internet is a treasure trove of knowledge. Whether you prefer self-paced learning or lack the time for a formal program, online courses offer a flexible path to learning JavaScript quickly. While both free and paid options exist, remember that “free” doesn’t always equate to high-quality instruction. Conduct thorough research before starting any course.
Introduction to JavaScript:
FreeCodeCamp offers this course for aspiring programmers with minimal prior JavaScript knowledge. It delves into web scripting, data types, JavaScript objects, and loops, reinforcing knowledge through coding tests.
Intro to JS: Drawing & Animation:
Khan Academy provides this free course that teaches students how to create illustrations and animations with JavaScript, combining videos, written guides, and exercises.
JavaScript Guide:
Mozilla Development Network (MDN) offers a comprehensive written tutorial for developers of all levels. It covers JavaScript’s capabilities and targets amateurs, beginners, intermediate programmers, and experts.
Modern JavaScript From the Beginning:
Udemy offers a paid program with over 20 hours of on-demand video content and downloadable resources, allowing students to progress at their own pace.
Introduction to JavaScript:
Codecademy offers a paid program that provides a deep overview of JavaScript’s foundational elements, including data types, functions, objects, control flows, and loops. It includes post-lesson quizzes and practical exercises to solidify knowledge.

Books
You can never go wrong with a good book. While numerous titles offer practical insights into programming, the following are particularly beneficial for fast-tracking your JavaScript learning journey:
JavaScript from Beginner to Professional: (Amazon)
Despite its title, this book offers easily digestible lessons suitable for experienced learners. It covers strings, arrays, loops, jQuery, and graphic creation, with step-by-step instructions for programming basic games.
Javascript: The Definitive Guide: (Amazon)
This book isn’t limited to novices; it delves into the complexities of JavaScript, providing a comprehensive understanding of the language’s trickier aspects.
JavaScript and jQuery: (Amazon)
This text focuses on foundational programming concepts, including syntax, control, data, and functional programming techniques, offering step-by-step guidance for building dynamic programs. Also good for building fundamentals with jQuery.
If self-paced learning or studying from books doesn’t align with your preferences, and you seek a more structured and supported educational journey with certification upon completion, a coding boot camp may be your ideal solution. In recent years, coding boot camps have gained prominence as a rapid and cost-effective means of acquiring valuable skills, circumventing the time and financial commitments associated with traditional four-year educational programs. These boot camps typically span a few weeks to several months, depending on the availability of part-time or full-time schedules.
The popularity of coding boot camps has soared, with a 171 percent increase in enrollment in virtual boot camp programs and a 49 percent overall growth in the coding boot camp market, as reported in a 2019 study by Course Report.
While it may be challenging to find boot camps exclusively focused on one programming language, they often include a broader curriculum encompassing various marketable skills. Therefore, if you’re contemplating how to rapidly attain JavaScript proficiency without an extended hiatus from work, enrolling in a coding boot camp is a pragmatic choice.
While networking may not be your initial thought when seeking effective ways to learn JavaScript, it stands as a powerful strategy.
Attending meetups and networking events holds substantial educational benefits. Language-specific panels at such events offer a unique opportunity to learn from seasoned JavaScript practitioners. However, the learning doesn’t end with presentations; it continues through post-event conversations.
Peter Tourian, a business and career writer, emphasized the significance of building rapport with like-minded peers, stating, “This sort of rapport is exactly what you need.” Collaborating and assisting others not only feels rewarding but also facilitates substantial reciprocal learning.
In the journey to master JavaScript, the path often leads to conversations and interactions with peers who share your goals. Networking and meetups, while unconventional, offer an efficient route to expedite your JavaScript learning process.
The popularity of coding boot camps has soared, with a 171 percent increase in enrollment in virtual boot camp programs and a 49 percent overall growth in the coding boot camp market, as reported in a 2019 study by Course Report.
While it may be challenging to find boot camps exclusively focused on one programming language, they often include a broader curriculum encompassing various marketable skills. Therefore, if you’re contemplating how to rapidly attain JavaScript proficiency without an extended hiatus from work, enrolling in a coding boot camp is a pragmatic choice.
The value of learning JavaScript becomes truly evident when you put your knowledge into practice. Mere theoretical understanding is not enough; practical application is the essence of mastery.
Transitioning from guided tutorials to real-world programming can feel intimidating, as it requires breaking free from the structured confines of step-by-step assignments. However, it’s a crucial leap towards becoming an independent developer.
Starting with small projects is a prudent approach. When you feel ready to apply your JavaScript skills, consider enhancing existing programs by adding new features rather than embarking on entirely new projects. Alternatively, begin within established frameworks, like developing Chrome extensions. Collaborating with a friend can provide valuable support and insights, making the journey less daunting.
Conclustion:
No matter your chosen path to learn JavaScript, remember that it demands time, effort, and unwavering dedication. Whether you aspire to become a front-end developer or wish to augment your existing skill set, numerous educational options are at your disposal. You may discover that advancing your career prospects is more achievable and affordable than initially anticipated.