What web development actually is?

Web developers build websites. Besides making the website look good and easy to use, many web developers also manage its performance and capacity.

Types of web developer

Web developers are usually back-end, front-end, or full-stack. Webmasters are sometimes developers.

Let's examine each role:

• Back-end web developers structure, code, and test websites. Access points for website content managers may also be their responsibility.
• Front-end web developers create the website's visuals and user interface. They arrange pages, add graphics, and enhance the site with HTML and JavaScript. Meta's Front-End Developer Professional Certificate teaches important front-end web development abilities.
• Full-stack developers operate as back-end and front-end developers. Companies without the funds for a huge website staff may hire these developers to design a complete website. Consider IBM's Full-Stack Developer Professional Certificate for full-stack web development.
• Webmasters administer websites. Keeping the website updated and fixing links and apps is their main job.

Responsibilities of a web developer

A web developer can work for a corporation or agency or freelance for individual clients.

Your daily tasks depend on your job, but they may include:

• GUI and menu design
• Writing and evaluating HTML, XML, or JavaScript site code
• Website multimedia integration
• Web application testing
• Fixing user experience or performance issues
• Working with designers, developers, and stakeholders

Web developer career path

Front-end or back-end development is a common starting point for web developers. They may become full-stack developers or work in project management, computer programming, or graphic design.

How much do web developers make?

US web developers earn $78,300 on average, according to the BLS. Glassdoor reports US web developers earn up to $249,297. Your salary depends on where you work, your sector, and your experience.

Web developers are expected to rise 23% between 2021 and 2031, faster than other occupations. Web development employment are rising due to e-commerce. Businesses are increasingly dependent on multi-device-compatible websites.

How to learn web development

Entry-level web developers rarely need degrees. Web developers might be self-taught or have an associate or bachelor's degree in website design or computer science. Degrees make you more competitive, but a good portfolio shows companies your skills.

These methods can help you become a web developer:

1. Develop web development skills

Clients and employers need web developers to have particular abilities that demonstrate their ability to meet website requirements. These talents can help you succeed as a web developer.

Technical skills

• Coding: HTML, PHP, CSS, and JavaScript are common front-end programming languages. Learn Python, Java, or Ruby for back-end development.
• Website responsiveness: People visit websites on different devices. Developers should develop sites that appear excellent on smartphones and tablets as well as computers.
• Technical SEO: Many website design aspects affect search engine ranking. Knowing how search engines rank web pages helps developers.
• Version control: This allows you track and control source code changes without starting over when you have an issue.
• Visual design: Knowing how to use white space, fonts, and images will increase your marketability.

Workplace skills

• Communication: Web developers share design ideas with clients and team members throughout the project.
• Customer service: Web developers should focus on clients to design the greatest websites.
• Detail-oriented: A little code change can improve website performance.
• Organization: Tracking deadlines, project tasks, processes, and budgets helps you develop a website on time.
• Problem Solving: Designing websites typically presents problems for web developers. They must be patient and able to detect and fix design or coding issues methodically.

2. Consider computer science or web design degrees.

Web development jobs can be obtained without a degree, but it helps. If you're in school or considering a degree, some majors may fit your professional aspirations better. If you prefer back-end web development, study computer science. If you prefer front-end development, consider a web design or UX degree.

3. Take web development classes.

Not all web developers need formal training. You can learn the abilities you need. You can learn HTML, JavaScript, or CSS and use it on your website after taking a course. Web Design for Everybody: Basics of Web Development & Coding from the University of Michigan is an online course that lets you improve skills while working on portfolio projects.

4. Create a web development portfolio.

Web developers' portfolios are crucial to their resumes. These projects demonstrate your skills to potential employers. Include projects that represent your desired work. Code should be annotated to show your thinking.

5. Certification

Certification proves your skills to employers. Many generic and vendor-specific options are available:

• Adobe Certified Expert
• Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate
• Amazon Web Services (AWS) Certified Developer
• Zend PHP Certified Engineer