I've been developing desktop applications primarily using C++, but I'm now looking to switch gears and dive into web development. I'm a bit stuck on what to focus on as I start this new journey. For frontend frameworks, I'm leaning towards React, but I'm open to other suggestions if you think there's a better option.
On the backend side, I've dabbled with Express, but I'm wondering if it's the best path for me. I'm looking for something that's both high-performance and secure, and I'm not afraid of a steep learning curve. The challenge for me lies in making sure I'm learning a backend technology that is widely used, so I won't be stuck with something that isn't applicable in the job market.
I have some basics down with JavaScript and I'm curious about other languages like TypeScript, Python, Ruby, PHP, and Rust. Each has its perks and downsides, and I've never worked with PHP, Ruby, or Rust before.
Then, there's the database question. I've started with MySQL but I'm open to exploring other database systems as well.
I realize that "the best" technologies depend on specific goals, which makes me think I should approach this with a mindset of adaptability while still remaining relevant. Honestly, it's all pretty overwhelming, and I'd love some guidance on where I should begin!
1 Answer
First off, it’s crucial to define your goals in web development. If you really want to succeed, you can't just chase after the latest tech trends. Focus on one area and get really good at it. For example, instead of learning every language, pick a niche where you can be the go-to person, like maintaining local business websites or data scraping for legal firms. This foundational knowledge will help you network and grow your career, which is even more important than the tech itself.
I get that a niche can help, but I'm still unclear if I should prioritize learning React with Express and MySQL. Should I just dive in to gain experience or is that too outdated? I want to make sure I’m not starting with poor practices.