How to Become a Web Developer

Web developers need a wide range of programming skills.

No one, obvious way to become a Web developer exists, although certain people are more suited to this career choice than others. You must learn a variety of computer languages ranging from HTML to more complicated scripting languages that make use of databases. Some skill in graphic design is helpful, but not a pre-requisite for Web development jobs. You can go to college for a computer science degree, or something similar, but in most cases such a degree will just give you a background in programming that is helpful in learning Web languages. Most Web developers are self-taught in the specific skill sets they use in their jobs.

Instructions

1. Learn to hand-code HTML and CSS. These two languages will provide the foundation of any website or Web-based application you create. Download a code editor program such as Notepad++, BBEdit or jEdit and use that instead of any WYSIWYG -- What You See Is What You Get -- editor like DreamWeaver. Study best practices for HTML and CSS, most importantly the separation of content and style. In simpler terms, keep your CSS out of your HTML as much as possible.

2. Learn JavaScript and at least one JavaScript library, starting with jQuery. Study the basics of JavaScript syntax -- the way in which the code is written for any specific language -- and find sample JavaScript you can add to your page. Edit the JavaScript until you become comfortable working with the language. Learn jQuery as it is the easiest to use for beginners, and use its code to build animations into your websites. Start working with AJAX -- Asynchronous JavaScript and XML -- as soon as you become comfortable in JavaScript and jQuery.

3. Pick one server-side language and master its use. Server-side languages run on the server that store your Web pages. Your choices include PHP, Ruby, Python, ASP.Net (Active Server Pages) and JSP (Java Server Pages). PHP is the best-suited to beginners due to its large community of developers and extensive online documentation. Learn how to work with user data and create login systems, which many Web development clients want.

4. Practice creating databases and using them with the server-side language of your choice. Chances are, you will learn some databasing as you learn your server-side language. The most popular database system for the Web is MySQL, though you may also encounter PostgreSQL or Microsoft SQL Server.

5. Put together a project of your own. While you can pick up basic Web design skills through tutorials on the Internet, you might want to find a graphic designer who can focus more on the design and help you network for jobs. Create a small Web application and allow others to comment on its usefulness or bugs. Help designers on their projects, too, by providing them with programming skills they lack.

6. Create a portfolio of your best work. Write a resume, get it checked by a professional at your local job help office and put the resume up on your portfolio. Set clear expectations about your work and abilities through your "About" and blog pages. Create a contact form and make sure it is easy for potential employers to find. Look up local Web development companies and send them a cover letter with your resume, explaining that you wish to take on extra work from them.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have not already gone to college, consider taking a computer science or information technology degree. This will open the door to internships.

• Once you learn a programming language, most others will become much easier to learn, as they all work in similar ways.