Hey everyone! I'm a second-year Computer Science student and fairly new to posting here. My primary programming language is C#, and I've been dabbling with Minimal API to create a functional CRUD web application using C#, SQLite, Tailwind CSS, and JavaScript. Although I wrote all the backend code myself, I've been leaning heavily on AI-generated code for the front end. While it was satisfying to finish my project, the sense of ownership faded once I realized I hadn't really built the front end myself.
Now, working on my second project, I ran into issues with the AI-generated front end: problems started cropping up with animations and functions that worked fine with dummy data but broke when I used actual data from C#. After a long day of debugging without results, I decided it was time to genuinely learn JavaScript instead of just relying on AI. I want to do this while still enhancing my C# skills, so I'm looking for guidance on specific JavaScript topics to master. My goal isn't to become a front-end expert but to be self-sufficient enough to confidently integrate my front end with my backend without depending on AI tools or copy-pasting code I don't fully grasp.
5 Answers
Instead of focusing too much on front-end frameworks right away, try replacing C# code with Express for your backend and learn the basics of HTML, CSS, and JS. Understanding fundamental web technologies is super important, and you'll find that knowing them will make everything else easier.
It's great that you want to build confidence with JavaScript! Start with the basics of HTML and CSS, and get comfortable with JavaScript syntax and the DOM. I’d also recommend learning TypeScript since you’re transitioning from C#. It’s a bit tougher at first, but worth it! Also, remember to manage your state effectively using your own methods instead of complex libraries; that way, you maintain control over your applications. And when you dive into frameworks, pick one and stick with it. React is super popular if you're aiming for front-end jobs.
You should definitely check out 'JavaScript: The Good Parts' by Douglas Crockford—it's a classic! It’s a short read and really lays a strong foundation for understanding JavaScript. It’ll give you the insight you need without all the fluff.
To solidify your JavaScript skills, focus on core concepts like using `const` and `let` instead of `var`, understanding arrow functions versus regular functions, and mastering DOM manipulation. Also, don't forget about learning asynchronous programming—callbacks, promises, and async/await is vital. Dive into the event loop, get comfortable with arrays using methods like `.map`, `.filter`, `.reduce`, and grasp the concept of scope and closures. Most importantly, make sure to practice debugging using tools like `console.log` and DevTools. If you're feeling adventurous, you might want to explore TypeScript too, since it aligns well with your C# experience!
Have you thought about checking out Frontend Masters? They have some great courses that can really help boost your skills. Also, there’s a recent Humble Bundle that covers modern web development, which could be a good resource.
Totally agree! That book is essential; skipping it would be a mistake if you really want to grasp JavaScript. Plus, it can set you up nicely for transitioning into TypeScript later!