There are hundreds of programming languages. Why start with this one? Here are our favorite reasons:
- You already have it. Every web browser comes with JavaScript built in. No complicated setup. You could literally write your first line of code in the next five minutes.
- You see results instantly. Change a line of code, refresh the page, and boom: you can see the result right in front of you. That instant feedback makes learning way more fun.
- It's everywhere. Websites, servers, apps, games. Learn one language and you can build almost anything.
- It's in demand. JavaScript has been one of the most popular languages in developer surveys year after year, and lots of companies hire people who know it.
- The community is enormous. Whatever problem you run into, someone else has run into it before and written about it online. Millions of tutorials, forums, and free tools exist to help you.
- It's a great first language. Once you understand JavaScript, picking up a second language is much easier, because the big ideas (variables, loops, functions, and so on) are the same in almost every language.
Watch outFair warning
JavaScript is famously forgiving. It often tries to keep running even when you've made a mistake, instead of stopping and complaining. That sounds nice, but it means bugs can sneak in quietly. Buggsy loves this about JavaScript. Don't worry: we'll teach you all of his tricks so you can catch him in the act.
Nice work! You've officially graduated from Preschool. You now know more about programming than most people on the planet. (Seriously, ask a random person what the "back end" is. Actually, maybe don't.)
Next stop: Kindergarten, where you'll set up your coding playground and write your very first program.