How can I understand JS?

#javascript #webdev #learning

So I have been learning JS for a little over a week. I have been using W3Schools, FreeCodeCamp, and YouTube tutorials, and StackOverFlow, and of course, DEV. I am having a hard time understanding how and when to know what code to use when making websites.

MY QUESTION:
What are some things you have done to better study and help retain and practice JS, as a beginner?

For me learning HTML & CSS for the past 9mo as well as SASS and Bootstrap the past week, is pretty straight forward overall. However JS feels like a steeper learning curve for the basics. I understand it takes years and you are always learning, but any tips or tricks would be great!

Thanks

Top comments (12)

SJellen • Sep 21 '20

For where you are you need to bridge your html/css knowledge with learning js. You can learn js in a vacuum and then not even know how to add it to a website.

I would suggest doing Frontend mentor challenges.
Find one that is novice that has a drop down menu and make the drop down with js. Slowly work your way up.

May I ask a question that may sound harsh?
Do you know how to link a js file to a html file?

I spent a while learning js and when it came time to make a site I was miffed at how to.

You really only learn by doing. The rest is abstract.

Bebe Zi • Sep 21 '20

Okai thanks! I will deffs check out and start working through those challenges!

Yes! I use VSC and I know how to link CSSand JS files to an HTML file.
Thanks for the tips

SJellen • Sep 22 '20

You really need bite size things like nav, increment, form validation, etc but as website elements to cement what your learning.

Keep at it. I’ve been there.

Jesse Calton • Sep 21 '20

Doing the easier coding exercises on sites like HackerRank or CodeWars was pretty helpful. Even if you get stumped, there’s no shame in looking at the solutions!

I also like code-along tutorials just when I’m finding my bearings. It helps just to type stuff out ya know?

Bebe Zi • Sep 21 '20

Awesome! I’ll check those out forsure!

Micah Lindley • Sep 21 '20

Hi there! Of course W3 is quite useful. However, if you're looking for more in-depth explanations check out the MDN Docs. They're officially sponsored by Mozilla which makes them reliable and always up-to-date. If you're trying to get more practice, take courses on Codecademy. They're interactive and quite helpful with the basics. And finally, learn by building! If there's a small website or web app you'd like to build, try to build it and do research on the way. I've always found that helpful. Good luck!