How to Become a Full-Stack Web Developer in 4 Steps

A full-stack web developer is a programmer who is skilled in coding both the frontend and the backend parts of a web application. These professionals are not expected to be an expert in all the areas, but should have adequate knowledge of all the technologies involved and the processes happening within the entire application.

Since the role encompasses both the backend and frontend, the demand for a full-stack developer is rising. According to the Bureau of Labour Statistics, the job of a full-stack developer is expected to grow by 13% between 2018-2028 period. Even LinkedIn ranks Full Stack Web Development as the 4th most popular job role in the IT sector.

Owing to such surveys and reports, the role of a full-stack developer has become the most sought-after position in top MNCs and firms. The boom in this area has paved the way for the emergence of both web-based and in-class training centres, which help individuals become full-stack developers. These follow various methods of pedagogy like Coding Bootcamp Programs, Immersive Classroom Learning Sessions, and also Completely Online Delivery.

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Here, in this article, we have designed a pathway which can help you to become a skilled full-stack web developer. Have a look at all these stages and try to align them with your own performance.

Step 1: Identify the Necessary Skills

There are a few tools and technologies that one needs to master to build a strong foundation for this role. The skills listed below are the ones you should try your hand on first.

Front End Skills

 HTML and CSS

•  CSS and HTML are the most essential elements of web development. The web and various frontend applications are built on these technologies.
• HTML helps to input content into a website, while CSS is a designing tool that is used to alter the appearance of the web application.

JavaScript

•  JavaScript is used both in the front end and the back end processes.
• The browsers are usually built on JavaScript so it is important to have a good command of JavaScript fundamentals.
• It will be used a lot with server-side languages like PHP, Python, ASP.net, etc.

Designing

•  It would be great if developers could enhance their skills in learning some UI design principles.
• The developers who are not good with designing can use CSS Framework to design the website or application.
• There are various popular CSS frameworks available to learn like Bootstrap, Tailwind CSS, Materialise, Bulma, etc.

Frontend Frameworks

•  Frameworks allow advanced frontend developments and save a lot of time.
• They provide a lot of advantages like reusable components, more organised UI, or page interaction.
• Some of the popular frameworks include React, Vue, Angular, Webpack, Svelte, etc.

Back End Skills

Server-Side Language and Framework

•  One should have knowledge of at least one server-side language and one server-side framework.
• Some of the server-side languages to choose from are Node JS, Python, Java, PHP, Ruby, Kotlin, Golang, Deno, etc.
• Candidates should also learn data structures and algorithms using that language. They should also focus on working with Array and Strings, as the developers will have to work a lot with both of these.

Databases

• All the web applications need to store their data in a database.
• One can choose to learn at least one database, preferably the one which aligns with the technology you are working on.
• Some of the popular databases are relational databases (RDBMS, PostgreSQL, MySQL, MS SQL), Cloud Databases (Firebase, Azure Cloud DB, AWS), and NoSQL (MongoDB, CouchDB, Elasticsearch).

Step 2: Start Learning

Now, when you have prepared a list of skills that you’ll require in your journey as a full-stack developer, then you need to start learning in a format that suits you. One can learn the skills through the following modes.

Degree Programs

• For a career as a full-stack developer, one can take up a 4-year degree course in computer science, software engineering, information technology, web development & web design, or any other similar course.
• It is the most common educational path that demonstrates competency to employers, allows candidates to develop a knock-out portfolio, land valuable internships, and make strong professional connections.
• These courses require time and financial commitment, and should be pursued at the undergraduate level.

Boot Camps

• Boot camps are short-term courses of 3-6 months. They are more flexible than a formal degree and are offered as part-time, full-time, virtual, and in-person training.
• These are highly intensive training courses that teach all the industry-required skills and also allow to make vital industry connections.
• Bootcamps are a quick way for newcomers to learn all the necessary skills.

Self Guided Courses

• Self guided web development courses are more flexible than the boot camps
• Self guided courses are more flexible than the boot camps and are available at a lower price or sometimes for free.
• They are usually video based courses that are offered along with additional resources, instructor support, and an active learner community.
• It is good for new learners as they can take the course slowly at their own pace.
• The platforms like Coursera, Udemy, CodeAcademy, Simplilearn, UpGrad, Almabetter, etc. offer these self guided courses.

Step 3: Enhance Deployment Skills

Now, the next step is to put your skills into practice and analyse what you have learned. It can be done by taking up some personal projects that could also be added to the CV.

• You can undertake projects from the learning material or boot camps.
• You can volunteer to undertake open-source projects. This will provide you with an opportunity to collaborate with other developers and also add value to your profile.
• Create applications using JavaScript, as Javascript is used in 99% of all web applications.
• Create web pages with all the steps like Domain Registration, Hosting, Setting up DNS records, setting up tests on the production side, setting up emails, and backing up the old site and going live.

Step 4: Build Your Portfolio and Apply for Jobs

• Portfolios are crucial as they are the first impression of a candidate that a recruiter has.
• Portfolios should be well designed, highlighting all the technical skills you have, your projects you have worked on, your work experience, etc.
• In addition to your resume, you can create a LinkedIn profile and start applying for jobs through various websites like Naukri.com, Indeed, etc.

The journey of a full-stack developer might be tough as there’s so much to learn. However, with experience and practice, the process will become easier. Also, one needs to continue upgrading their skills to always stay ahead of the crowd. A flourishing sector, those interested must definitely try their hands on full stack web development.