What a good Frontend developer needs to know

How do you know if you are a good expert? What skills should a frontend developer have so that there is no doubt of his competence? If you’re worried about these questions, check out the list in this article!

1. HTML and CSS

The basics of frontend-development, the base of any web-application. Fortunately, these technologies are fairly easy to learn: it can be done in just a couple of weeks. Knowing HTML/CSS, the developer is already able to create standard static websites. Just don’t forget to pay special attention to the following points:

DOM

DOM stands for Document Object Model and is translated as “Document Object Model”. DOM is a programming interface (API) for HTML and XML documents. It’s important to understand why all objects in the DOM function this way.

Actions in the DOM

Once you understand the structure of the DOM you can begin to learn how elements interact and how to control them.

HTML semantics

Many programmers ignore semantic markup. Understanding semantics is essential for SEO and your website’s overall structure.

CSS Selectors

What do you know about CSS selectors? If you know each of them, then you shouldn’t have much trouble making a quality web page design.

2. JavaScript

When you want to add advanced design and intricate functions to websites, then in addition to HTML and CSS you have to use JavaScript. It allows you to implement all the dynamic elements such as pop ups, animated scrolling and other interactive things. Learn JavaScript is not difficult, especially for those who speak English well.

3. JavaScript frameworks

There are a huge variety of JavaScript frameworks. Among the best known are React, Angular, Vue, and EmberJS. They all contain a specific code template (structure) that helps you write clean code and apply standard functions. Frameworks are essential for creating complex projects, especially SPA.

4. testing, debugging

These are important steps in all kinds of software development because any application and program needs to be thoroughly tested. If bugs are detected, it is best to fix them immediately, without putting them off for later. As a developer, you should be able to write different test scenarios or even apply the technique of software creation through TDD testing.

5. Cross-browser development.

Usually sites display roughly the same in most browsers. But there is still a difference, and it lies in the processing. And as the need to regularly support different browsers increases, you should definitely test their compatibility while writing code.

6. Responsive and Portable Design

Mobility and responsiveness are the very qualities that allow web design to look great on any device: PCs, laptops, smartphones and tablets. To set up automatic scaling, use HTML with CSS.

7. Problem solving skills

No good developer is without problem-solving skills. Logical thinking is needed when writing code, choosing a template, structuring, finding and fixing bugs, etc. And patience is nothing to talk about.

8. Performance Analysis

Over time, sites proliferate and become unwieldy. As a result, there are difficulties with scaling and performance. That is, even loading an application can take a long time. This, of course, is not acceptable.

If you want your site visitors to have an exceptionally positive user experience, keep a close eye on your software. The code should be checked several times and be sure to monitor scalability. Performance can be analyzed with tools built into your browser. They help you find faulty, low-performing, memory-overloading code.

9. SEO

Search engine optimization is responsible for attracting traffic to a website. It involves many different aspects, but if you want, you can find complete information on the web on how to bring your site to the top of search engine results.

10. User experience

The frontend developer is responsible for the user experience. If you want to become a true master of your craft, learn to understand those who use your product. In order to get the best possible results, do as much research and experimentation as possible. Your value as an expert will largely depend on your skills in the field.

Bottom line

All of the above in one day can not be mastered. But if you regularly develop in these areas, then any doubts about their competence and value in you will disappear by itself.