I've been a fullstack web developer for 7 years, primarily working with React on the frontend and dabbling in HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. On the backend, I've used several languages like Clojure, Ruby on Rails, Node.js, and Python. Recently, while creating a proof of concept for an AWS API, I made a simple UI with plain HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to demonstrate how the APIs work to the product team.
I shared this with a backend developer who's now responsible for the feature, which got me thinking: is it reasonable to expect backend developers to be able to open an HTML file and understand what's happening in the script tag? How comfortable should average and skilled backend developers be with frontend technologies?
5 Answers
Everyone has their strengths. While some backend developers might understand basic frontend, not all are up to date with every framework or design trend, and that’s okay.
I believe backend devs should be able to read and debug frontend code, especially when it involves server APIs. It seems essential for collaboration.
In my experience, most developers have at least a basic knowledge of HTML and CSS. However, when it comes to frameworks like React, it varies widely. Some can dive into it, while others stick to their backend expertise.
It's all about the individual. Some backend developers get into frontend and can handle it pretty well, while others only know how to make things functional without making it pretty.
Most backend developers can read and understand frontend code, though writing it can be a challenge! Making it look good is another story—often, that’s where many struggle.
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