How to Learn Java Script for Free

There are numerous free JavaScript training resources online.

JavaScript is a computer scripting language used to add interactivity to Web pages. You can write scripts to validate form submissions, create special photo gallery effects, make interactive maps, provide visitors with calculators and other useful tools, and add other customized functionality to your Web pages. JavaScript is a "client-side" language, meaning the script is run by your Web browser. You don't need any special tools or software to learn and write JavaScript. There are plenty of free tutorials, examples, reference documents and other resources available online to help you learn JavaScript.

Things You'll Need

• JavaScript-capable Web browser
• Text editor

Instructions

1. Complete the JavaScript tutorial on the W3Schools website. This tutorial presents all of the core JavaScript features in a logical, organized manner. The tutorial teaches you basic programming skills along with the JavaScript scripting language.

2. Complete the W3Schools' HTML DOM (HyperText Markup Language Document Object Model), DHTML (Dynamic HTML) and AJAX (Asynchronous JavaScript and XML) tutorials. These tutorials give you a deeper understanding of how to use JavaScript to manipulate and interact with elements of your Web page, and exchange data with a website to automatically update your page with new information.

3. Continue to the Webucator JavaScript tutorial. You can work through the basic tutorials to gain more mastery of these concepts, or skip to the advanced tutorials on topics you did not cover on the W3Schools site, starting with the Advanced Techniques set.

4. Study JavaScript example code. Use your favorite search engine to search for examples related to specific techniques you want to learn. Try search phrases like "JavaScript menu" or "JavaScript RSS feed." The best way to learn is hands-on. Download or copy example scripts. Experiment by modifying the scripts using your favorite text or code editor to edit and save your changes.

5. Review the official JavaScript documentation on the Mozilla Developer Center (MDC) website. The Core JavaScript Reference and Core JavaScript Guide are straightforward language references that provide comprehensive information about the JavaScript language. The DOM and DHTML topics on the MDC website provide additional useful references.

6. Participate in discussion groups on the MDC or other websites. There are numerous websites and groups where you can get help, ask questions, share ideas and code, and learn from other JavaScript students and experts.

Tips & Warnings

• Find a mentor. Online resources and training are great, but sometimes the best way to learn is face-to-face. If you have friends or coworkers who are experienced JavaScript developers, ask them if they would be willing to help and guide you. Look for offline social networking opportunities, such as local clubs that focus on JavaScript and Web technologies. Even a weekly visit to share a cup of coffee and "talk shop" can be educational and inspiring.

References

• W3Schools: Web Building Tutorials
• Webucator: JavaScript Tutorial
• Mozilla Developer Center: JavaScript Documentation

Resources

• Your HTML Source: JavaScript Tutorials