## How it all started?

### Plans and Intents

I decided to start a blog at the start of 2023, and I wanted to be able to personalize it to my liking, so I decided that I don't want to use an existing blogging platform, but build one from scratch. I have good experience in programming and web development, so I opted in for the challenge. I wanted to make it functional, yet not waste too much time on building.

### Choosing the right technologies

I spent about 2 weeks analyzing tools and technologies that can help me build the site quickly. I ended up choosing [NextJS](https://nextjs.org/) for the core and [Payload CMS](https://payloadcms.com/) for the content management platform. I had no experience in either of them but I wanted to give them a try and decide if I want to stick with them. **This was one of my first mistakes - I was not aware of their full capabilities.** I made the connections between Next and the CMS and kept on developing. 

### The unexpected turn of events
Down the road, I realized that the Payload CMS was not the thing I was looking for, so I went back to the drawing board and spent more time  researching. After some detailed analysis, I picked [Strapi CMS](https://strapi.io/). Strapi offers a lot of customizability and fits perfectly for my needs. There was a self-hosted free option or a cloud-based paid one. Since this was only a work in progress, I decided to try the free version first.

### Deployment
From the beginning, I had in mind the need for a server that could host multiple applications at once. The simplest and cheapest option was to use a Linux container that would host all applications. This meant that I would need a load balancer like [NGINX](https://www.nginx.com/) that will handle the connections and will redirect the requests to the correct application.

### HTTPS
When I bought the domain, I also bought a certificate to use the site over HTTPS. However, during the deployment phase, I found a tool called [certbot](https://certbot.eff.org/) that generates certificates for free with just a one-time configuration. It did the job so well that I never used the certificate I purchased.

## Why I created the blog?
I am working full-time as a software engineer and helping was always one of my favorite things about my job. I remember the hard times I had while learning how to code, all of the hurdles and the coutless times of a senior helping me get over them, so I made a promise to myself that I will become the senior developer I needed when I was a junior. I am always trying to help others and seeing people improving and being thankful for the help, makes me very happy and fills me with very possitive energy.  

Exactly this passion to help people gave me the motivation to start blogging. I wanted to share my experience and write useful and helpful content for everyone.   

<br />
<img src="https://resources.thealphaspot.com/uploads/how_i_created_my_own_blog_1_d57fb7337a.jpg" alt="How I created my own blog image 1" />

## Lessons Learned

### Make a time estimation of your work
Before starting a big project, make sure that you have planned the time that will be needed. My initial goal was to publish the blog within 3-4 months. In reality I bearly released it an year after the initial start. The time that I spent developing I could've spent writing. This is something that you definetely should have in consideration.

### Choose well your tech stack
The choice of a tech stack is also very important because you will be stuck with all of the tools that you've picked previously. Make sure that you have picked the right tools for your application. Preferably use something that you are familiar with, otherwise you will compromize some of the quality.

### Consider using a prebuilt platform
Having your own infrastrucutre is nice, but do you actually need it? Using a third-party blog software might save you a lot of time and not necessarly make your website less customizable. There are a lot of great themes and page builders that can make your website unique. Make sure you know what you are dealing with before you decide to create your own solution.

## Was it really that bad of a decision?
No, I am really glad that I made my website with tools and technologies that are modern and developer-friendly. This allows the website to scale easier at a later stage when new features and functionalities will be implemented.
This whole project gave me a good experience, I learned a lot of things and I have the NextJS framework and the Strapi CMS in my arsenal of web development tools.

## You want to start a blog?
I hope this article makes it easier for you to choose the right approach for your blog. Whether you choose an existing platform or decide to create one from scratch, the content that you put in is what matters the most.


how-i-created-my-own-blog-main.jpg

The process behind building thealphaspot, what went right and what didn't.

The story of how I created my own blog with NextJS, the things that I did right and the ones that I didn't. A brief summary of the lessons I learned and the mistakes I made.

How I created my own blog using NextJS and why? (don't fall for my mistakes)

Being a web developer in 2024 is a high-demand, high-difficulty, and high-reward job that requires extensive knowledge in a wide range of technologies and tools. Proficiency in fundamentals, understanding APIs, adept documentation reading, and utilizing search engines for problem-solving are essential skills for success in this field.

One of the best ways to learn to code is by creating semi-complex projects that involve all of the methodologies that the everyday web developer is using. We have sorted the project ideas by difficulty and job role.

## Web Developer Project Ideas for Absolute Beginners

### Simple Calculator
If you are just starting out as a developer and you are trying to learn the DOM (Document Object Model), building a simple calculator is a perfect starting point. 

You will learn how to:
- write conditional (if-else) statements
- get user input from input fields
- listen for events and handling button clicks
- write the output in the HTML page

Recommended Tech Stack:
- HTML
- JavaScript
- CSS (Optional - if you want to style the page and make the user experience better)

<div style="display: flex;flex-direction: column;align-items: center;">
<img src="https://resources.thealphaspot.com/uploads/calc1_7eeeaff18e.jpg" alt="calculator-operations" />
<p style="color: #909296">(Simple Calculator Operations)</p>
</div>

<div style="display: flex;flex-direction: column;align-items: center;">
<img src="https://resources.thealphaspot.com/uploads/calc2_fb38dfabb7.jpg" alt="calculator-result" />
<p style="color: #909296">(Simple Calculator Result)</p>
</div>

### Guess the Number
Another good small project for staters is the **Guess the Number** game. You present the user an input field where they can write a number between 0 and 100. The user has 10 chances to guess a randomly generated number and each time the user types a number and clicks the submit button, a new message is added to the screen, saying either the number is lower or the number is higher. If the number is correctly guessed the game ends and the user wins. If the user can't guess the number within 10 tries, the user loses.

You will learn how to:
- write conditional (if-else) statements
- get user input from input fields
- listen for events and handling button clicks
- write the output in the HTML page

Recommended Tech Stack:
- HTML
- JavaScript
- CSS (Optional - if you want to style the page and make the user experience better)

<div style="display: flex;flex-direction: column;align-items: center;">
<img src="https://resources.thealphaspot.com/uploads/guess1_7d435ad40b.jpg" alt="calculator-operations" />
<p style="color: #909296">(Game Screen)</p>
</div>

<div style="display: flex;flex-direction: column;align-items: center;">
<img src="https://resources.thealphaspot.com/uploads/guess2_f5df17cf0e.jpg" alt="guess-the-number-win" />
<p style="color: #909296">(Game Screen Win)</p>
</div>

<div style="display: flex;flex-direction: column;align-items: center;">
<img src="https://resources.thealphaspot.com/uploads/guess3_3abf1865db.jpg" alt="guess-the-number-loss" />
<p style="color: #909296">(Game Screen Loss)</p>
</div>


## Front-End Web Developer Projects
The project ideas from here are for Beginners to Intermediates. This means that you already have the basic knowledge and we are going to a bit more advanced territory.

### Static Landing Page
Building a static landing page is a great challenge for a beginner to see if they can replicate an existing design with their own code/skills. Pick a website/page/design that you like and try to mimic it.

If the result is not excellent, don't lose hope, I am sure that you've learned a couple of things already just by attempting to recreate it.

*Bonus Challenge: Make it responsive - it should behave well on smartphones, tablets, and desktops.

You will learn how to:
- Write complex HTML and CSS
- Build beautiful UIs
- Style Web Components

Recommended Tech Stack:
- HTML
- CSS/SCSS
- Bootstrap/Tailwind/Other Style Framework (Optional)

If you need inspiration you can check out this interesting [AI tool for generating designs based on user input](https://v0.dev/).

### Make a Personal Portfolio
Make a multi-page structured website that has home, about and contact pages. Design and Build it to your liking, express yourself and show your uniqueness, or use AI to help you come up with a design and change it to represent yourself better. Adding pictures and custom fonts will make the site look more personalized.

You will learn how to:
- Write complex HTML and CSS
- Use a Styling Framework

Recommended Tech Stack:
- HTML
- CSS/SASS
- Bootstrap/Tailwind/Other Style Framework (Optional)

### Blog
Creating a blog programmatically is not a hard task, but coming up with content to fill in that blog might be difficult. A great tool that will give you random blog articles is [jsonplaceholder](https://jsonplaceholder.typicode.com/). Using their API for posts can help you build a fully functional blog without the need to write your own backend. 

If you want to get blog articles as JSON you can use the code below:
```js
fetch('https://jsonplaceholder.typicode.com/posts/')
      .then(response => response.json())
      .then(json => console.log(json));
```
The API also allows you to open a specific article, to create, edit, and delete existing articles. Make sure to read the jsonplaceholder's guide to understand how their API works.

You will learn how to:
- Use APIs
- Read documentation
- Make user interfaces
- Use a complex Front-End framework

Recommended Tech Stack:
- React/Vue/Angular/Svelte (Only one of the frameworks)
- CSS/SASS
- Bootstrap/Tailwind/Other Style Framework (Optional)

### Spotify Player
If you have a Spotify premium account, you can use the Spotify API to create a web-based client using Spotify's library. Play Songs, manage playlists, search genres, and search based on user input. 

You will learn how to:
- Use APIs
- Read documentation
- Make user interfaces
- Use a complex Front-End framework

Recommended Tech Stack:
- React/Vue/Angular/Svelte (Only one of the frameworks)
- CSS/SASS
- Bootstrap/Tailwind/Other Style Framework (Optional)

![musicplayer1.jpg](https://resources.thealphaspot.com/uploads/musicplayer1_eec0d88710.jpg)
![musicplayer2.jpg](https://resources.thealphaspot.com/uploads/musicplayer2_e973689729.jpg)
![musicplayer3.jpg](https://resources.thealphaspot.com/uploads/musicplayer3_144b906dab.jpg)
![musicplayer4.jpg](https://resources.thealphaspot.com/uploads/musicplayer4_565626f161.jpg)

## Back-End Web Developer Projects

### Restful API
A Restful API is one of the core things a backend web developer should have in their arsenal of skills. 

You will learn how to:
- Create/Read/Update/Delete objects from a database
- Create API Routes
- Parse JSON/XML requests and send responses
- Send correct HTTP Statuses
- Read and Write HTTP Headers

Recommended Tech Stack:
- Java / C# / NodeJS / PHP / Python
- MySQL / PostgreSQL / MongoDB

### Web Scraper/Automatic Tester
Being able to control the browser from the backend is an interesting concept. Using a driver to perform browser automation can help you do tedious tasks easier with the help of a script. You can extract data from a page or you can simulate user behavior.

> Disclaimer: Use web scrapers only on sites that you are sure they won't get you in trouble. Please do some research on web scraping before you start using it.

You will learn how to:
- Control the browser with code
- DOM manipulation will be used to evaluate elements from the page

Recommended Tech Stack:
- Java / C# / NodeJS / Python
- Selenium / Cypress / Playwright

### Discord Bot

If you have Discord or a Discord server, then you probably know what a Discord Bot is. Making a simple bot that reads chat commands and provides an answer or a reaction is really easy to do. You can make it perform Google searches and return information, or make a leveling system that gives you points when you write messages. You can also make a trivia game that gets questions from API. Basically, the sky is the limit, so you can be creative and use the chat as user input and the response will be the output for the user.

You will learn how to:
- Use the Discord API
- Make a chatbot that will execute commands
- Build a CLI-like program (similar to a command line tool program)

## Full-Stack Web Developer Projects
The Full-Stack projects are just a combination of Front-End and Back-End projects. You can always extend a Front-End project and add a Back-End to it, or create a Front-End that will control the Back-End. 

### Online Store
In my opinion, this is one of **the Best Beginner Full-Stack projects**. If you want to get your Web Development skills to the next level, this is definitely the project for you. It consists of User Authentication, Database Transactions, Listing pages, Account and Order Management, and a lot more.

You will learn how to:
- Create and login accounts
- Use Sessions / JWT (JSON Web Tokens)
- Encryption, Decryption, and Hashing algorithms, Cryptography
- CRUD Operations
- HTTP(S)
- AJAX
- REST APIs
- Integrate Payment Providers (Optional)

Recommended Tech Stack:
- Java / C# / NodeJS / PHP / Python
- MySQL / PostgreSQL / MongoDB
- React/Vue/Angular/Svelte
- CSS/SASS
- Bootstrap/Tailwind/Other Style Framework (Optional)

Picking the right task is of great importance when you are a beginner and having someone to guide you during your journey is essential. It's important to try and do the tasks by yourself but when you get stuck you should ask for help. By doing these tasks you will understand the principles of programming and web development and after you are done with them, you will be one step closer to reaching the goal of becoming a successful Web Developer.

dev-projects-for-beginners-main.jpg

Get inspiration for your next Web Dev project

10 Web Developer Project Ideas for Beginners to kick off your web developer experience

10 Web Developer Project Ideas for Beginners in 2024

## Introduction
Learning JavaScript, the versatile and widely-used programming language, is a valuable skill in today's tech-driven world. Whether you're a beginner looking to get into web development or an experienced programmer that wants to expand their skill set, understanding the time commitment required to learn JavaScript is crucial. In this article, we'll explore the factors that influence the learning process and provide practical insights into how long it takes to become proficient in JavaScript.

<h2><strong>How Long Does It Take to Learn JavaScript?</strong></h2>
The time to learn JavaScript varies, but gaining proficiency in basics may take around 6-9 months. Mastery, including advanced concepts and frameworks, could extend to 12-16 months or more, depending on individual factors and learning intensity.

To achieve these timelines you need to be dedicated and practice daily. Programming is hard and if you don't see immediate results, don't worry, try to understand how basic algorithms work, learn the core concepts of programming, or ask a friend for help if you are stuck. If you don't like the process or think that JavaScript or programming is not for you, it might be better to focus your attention on something you feel more comfortable in, because learning something you don't like will hardly get you anywhere. From experience, I can say that just because you started learning JavaScript, it doesn't mean you have to keep doing it at any cost. Having said that, I don't want to discourage anyone, just want to set realistic expectations for what you are going to be dealing with.

If you are a beginner or an itermedate developer take a look at [10 Web Developer Project Ideas for Beginners in 2024](https://thealphaspot.com/articles/web-developer-project-ideas-for-beginners/).

## Common Learning Path of a JS Developer

### Foundations of JavaScript

To grasp the fundamentals of JavaScript, beginners typically spend 2-3 months on dedicated study and practice. This stage involves understanding variables, data types, loops, and conditionals. Online coding platforms, interactive tutorials, and coding exercises are excellent resources for building a strong foundation. If you are starting as a self-thought developer I'd recommend starting with YouTube videos or Udemy courses. It will be very helpful if you can find someone who knows JavaScript and helps you when you feel stuck or have a question. The ability to search in Google is also essential for a Beginner Web Developer. You can experiment with AI Models like ChatGPT or Google Bard, but use them only for explanation of things you don't understand. Don't ask them to write the code for you.

### DOM Manipulation and Front-End Development

The Document Object Model (DOM) is a critical aspect of the Front-End web development with JavaScript. Learning to manipulate the DOM, handle events, and create interactive web pages usually takes an additional 2-3 months. During this phase, aspiring developers delve into projects, gaining hands-on experience to reinforce their knowledge. I call this the interactive phase because you finally start seeing dynamic changes in the web page, rather than just using the console. 

### Promises, Asynchronous JavaScript and AJAX

Asynchronous programming is a key concept in JavaScript, and understanding it is essential for creating dynamic web applications. Devoting 2-3 months to mastering asynchronous JavaScript and AJAX (Asynchronous JavaScript and XML) is needed, as developers learn to work with APIs and handle data asynchronously. Understanding how promises work might be one of the hardest things in JavaScript, but with enough exercise and trial and failure, you will eventually get them.

### Frameworks and Libraries

Embracing JavaScript frameworks and libraries, such as React, Angular, or Vue.js, is the next step. Learning a framework can take 2-4 months, depending on the complexity and the individual's prior experience. These tools enhance efficiency by providing pre-built components and efficient state management. Learning a framework will make you think in a different way than the standard DOM manipulation, but once you get used to it, you will love it and will never want to go back to vanilla JavaScript. If you are interested in frameworks, you will love the article [How I created my own blog using NextJS and why? (don't fall for my mistakes)](https://thealphaspot.com/articles/how-i-created-my-own-blog/).

### Server-Side Development

For a more comprehensive skill set, understanding server-side JavaScript with Node.js is recommended. This step can take an additional 2-3 months, enabling developers to build full-stack applications and work seamlessly across the client and server sides. Due to the dynamic nature of programming, if you want to stay relevant, you should learn a lot of different technologies. Being capable of writing full-stack applications will pay you off big time when you start looking for a job.

### Continuous Learning and Real-world Projects

Everything that we mentioned is important but the real mastery comes with practical application. Engaging in real-world projects, collaborating with other developers, and staying updated on industry trends are ongoing processes. Many professionals consider themselves continually learning, as JavaScript evolves and new technologies emerge. Being interested in the newest technologies and following JavaScript communities will help you stay up to date with the latest trends.

## Conclusion

Did we manage to answer the question **How Long Does It Take to Learn JavaScript?**. If you came here for the short answer - Prepare yourself for at least a year full of intensive study and be patient because practice makes perfect.

how-long-does-it-take-to-learn-js-main.jpg

Learn how much time usually takes to learn JavaScript

How Long Does It Take to Learn JavaScript?

## Prototype vs Class Approach

In JavaScript, both prototypes and classes are used to implement object-oriented programming (OOP) features, but they represent different approaches to achieving the same goal. With the introduction of the `class` syntax in ECMAScript 2015 (ES6), the aim was to enhance the simplicity and ease of working with OOP in JavaScript. The adoption of classes provides a more convenient and familiar syntax, especially for developers transitioning from other programming languages to JavaScript.

## Prototype-based Inheritance
In JavaScript, objects can serve as prototypes for other objects. Each object has an internal link to another object called its prototype. If you want to see the prototype of an object, you can use the `Object.getPrototypeOf` method.

```js
// Create an object with properties
const person = {
  name: 'George',
  age: 30,
  hobbies: ['programming', 'tech', 'blogging'],
  greet: function() {
    console.log(`Hello, my name is ${this.name} and I am ${this.age} years old. My hobbies are ${this.hobbies.join(', ')}.`);
    // Hello, my name is George and I am 30 years old. My hobbies are programming, tech, blogging.
  }
};

// Get the prototype of the object
const prototype1 = Object.getPrototypeOf(person);
console.log('Prototype: ', prototype1); // Prototype:  [Object: null prototype] {}
```

You can create objects directly using the Object constructor or object literals, and then extend their functionality by adding properties and methods directly to the prototype object. Take a look at the next example:

```js
// Create a constructor function
function Person(name, age, hobbies) {
  this.name = name;
  this.age = age;
  this.hobbies = hobbies;
}

// Adding a method to the prototype
Person.prototype.greet = function() {
  console.log(`Hello, my name is ${this.name} and I am ${this.age} years old. My hobbies are ${this.hobbies.join(', ')}.`);
   // Hello, my name is George and I am 30 years old. My hobbies are programming, tech, blogging.
};

// Create an instance of Person
const person1 = new Person('George', 30, ['programming', 'tech', 'blogging']);

// Get the prototype of the object
const prototype2 = Object.getPrototypeOf(person1);
console.log('Prototype: ', prototype2); // Prototype:  { greet: [Function (anonymous)] }
```

See the differences in the console logs from the prototypes. Now the greet method is part of the prototype instead of the person object itself.

## Class-based Inheritance
The class syntax provides a more familiar and structured way to define objects and their behavior. Beneath the surface of the class syntax, JavaScript continues to rely on prototypes. The `class` syntax can be viewed as a form of syntactic sugar that simplifies the prototype-based approach. 

```js
// Create the Person Class
class Person {
  constructor(name, age, hobbies) {
    this.name = name;
    this.age = age;
    this.hobbies = hobbies;
  }

  //  Methods definitions
  greet() {
    console.log(`Hello, my name is ${this.name} and I am ${this.age} years old. My hobbies are ${this.hobbies.join(', ')}.`);
  }
}

// Creating an instance of Person
const person1 = new Person('George', 30, ['programming', 'tech', 'blogging']);

// Calling the method
person1.greet(); // Hello, my name is George and I am 30 years old. My hobbies are programming, tech, blogging.
```

## Personal Experience
In my career as a software engineer, I've used both approaches. In one of my projects I had no other choice but to use the prototype chains as the project was running a version of JavaScript that didn't support classes (ECMAScript 5). If I had to choose one over the other I would definitely pick the `class` syntax. It makes the code more readable, easier to understand, and less of a pain when extending a base class.

<h2><strong>Prototype or Class syntax is better?</strong></h2>

Both prototype-based and class-based approaches are valid ways to implement OOP in JavaScript. **The choice between prototype or class syntax often depends on personal preference and coding style**. However, it's essential to understand that JavaScript's prototypal nature remains fundamental to both approaches.

prototype-vs-class-main.jpg

Which approach to use? The prototype-based or the class-based?

JavaScript Prototype VS Class? Which one is better?

## What are JavaScript Portfolio Projects?
Whether you're a beginner, an intermediate, or an experienced web developer, considering a portfolio project is a good idea. Typically, these projects aim to enhance your skills and showcase your abilities by creating practical and interactive applications. Having a solid portfolio project can be beneficial to you without causing harm. It increases the likelihood that you'll be a competitive job candidate compared to someone without a portfolio.

## 1. A to-do app

![todos.png](https://resources.thealphaspot.com/uploads/todos_8be6b2d71f.png)

Developing a to-do app is advantageous for programming learners as it offers hands-on experience in fundamental concepts like variables, data types, conditions, and loops. This practical application aids in understanding UI development, data management, and event handling. The process also enhances debugging skills, encourages project organization, and allows for incremental complexity (adding persistence via local storage or establishing a connection to a backend with a database). Building a to-do app reflects real-world scenarios, making the learning process more engaging and relevant. The completed project serves as a valuable addition to a web developer's portfolio, showcasing practical skills to potential employers.

## 2. E-commerce Platform

![E-COMMERCE.jpg](https://resources.thealphaspot.com/uploads/E_COMMERCE_c82344c1e4.jpg)

Creating an e-commerce platform from scratch teaches coding for both frontend and backend, covering aspects like user sessions, cart management, and secure authentication. It showcases a comprehensive understanding of real-world system components and database management to potential employers. The project also includes considerations for security, integration of third-party services, and the development of user-friendly interfaces. Learners gain insights into scalability, performance optimization, and project management throughout the process.

## 3. Spotify API Client

![musicplayer1.jpg](https://resources.thealphaspot.com/uploads/musicplayer1_eec0d88710.jpg)
![musicplayer2.jpg](https://resources.thealphaspot.com/uploads/musicplayer2_e973689729.jpg)
![musicplayer3.jpg](https://resources.thealphaspot.com/uploads/musicplayer3_144b906dab.jpg)
![musicplayer4.jpg](https://resources.thealphaspot.com/uploads/musicplayer4_565626f161.jpg)

If you're a Spotify premium member, you can use the Spotify API to create a web-based client for easy interaction with Spotify's library. This lets you play songs, manage playlists, explore genres, and search based on your preferences.
Show that you're good at using APIs by effectively communicating with Spotify's services in your web-based client. Also, demonstrate your ability to read and understand API documentation. Highlight your experience in making user interfaces that improve the overall user experience and make it easy to navigate your web-based Spotify client. Lastly, showcase your skills in implementing a complex front-end framework to design a user interface that goes beyond basic features for a better user experience.

## 4. Quotes Generator

![quote-api.jpg](https://resources.thealphaspot.com/uploads/quote_api_e5f21016f5.jpg)

Creating a Quotes Generator is another great JavaScript portfolio project as it utilizes an API to show random quotes to the reader. It offers hands-on experience, teaches user interaction, and introduces beginners to API integration. Generating random quotes helps understand randomness in coding while managing data and handling errors adds practical skills. Successfully completing the project boosts confidence and provides a tangible item for a portfolio, showcasing practical coding abilities.

If you are interested in the Quotes Generator, you can use the [ChuckNorrisAPI](https://api.chucknorris.io/).

## 5. Blog

![blog.jpg](https://resources.thealphaspot.com/uploads/blog_c525a8c1a2.jpg)

Yes, you read that right, a blog. Just like [how I created my own blog](https://thealphaspot.com/articles/how-i-created-my-own-blog/) with NextJS and Strapi CMS. With a blog, you can show your design skills, understand how to manage data, optimize your site with good SEO practices, connect your blog with an external content management system, and a lot more. It's a great full-stack web application that will showcase your coding skills and you still get the benefit of adding personal content of your choice.

If you liked this post, I am sure you will love these 10 Web Developer Project Ideas for Beginners [here](https://thealphaspot.com/articles/web-developer-project-ideas-for-beginners/).

## Conclusion

Making projects for your portfolio is great because it lets you use your programming skills in real-life situations. It shows you can solve problems, understand different technologies, and proves your abilities to potential employers. Having a solid portfolio helps you stand out in the world of programming.


portfolio-projects-main.jpg

Stay ahead with these 5 Great JavaScript Portfolio Projects

5 Great JavaScript Portfolio Projects

## Why are APIs important?

APIs, which stands for Application Programming Interfaces, are super important because they help different computer programs talk to each other easily. They're like connectors that make sure software systems work well together. APIs break down big programs into smaller parts, making it easier for developers to create and update them. A cool thing about APIs is they let developers reuse existing code, saving time and effort.

They also help apps grow and change without causing big problems. APIs ensure that apps work smoothly on different devices and systems, making everything more flexible. They encourage creativity by letting developers mix and match features from different sources, creating new and interesting stuff. APIs also make it simple for external developers to join in and add their own ideas to existing apps. They help manage data efficiently by providing standardized ways to access and share it.

From a business perspective, APIs create opportunities by letting other developers use certain features of an app, which can lead to new apps or collaborations. And don't worry, APIs take security seriously by controlling who gets access through authentication and authorization. In short, APIs are like the backbone of modern software, making things run smoothly, adapt easily, and encourage new ideas in the tech world.


## API Ideas to Build as a Backend Developer

### 1. To-do List API
As a beginner its important to understand the key concepts of creating an API. Start simple and create your first Todo List API. Implement the following endpoints:

#### A to-do skeleton:
```json
{
  "id": "<uuid>",
  "title": "My example to-do",
  "body": "Here is an important description on my to-do",
  "isCompleted": false
}
```

#### API Routes
`GET` /todos -> Return All To-dos

`POST` /todo -> Add a new To-do

`PUT` /todos/{ID} -> Update a To-do

`DELETE` /todos/{ID} -> Delete a To-do

### 2. Random Quote Generator API
A Quote Generator API is another great beginner idea that you can build. Ask for a random quote on a particular topic and receive your citation.

#### A Quote skeleton
```json
{
  "id": "<uuid>",
  "quote": "It's not an easy task to come up with a good tech quote.",
  "author": "TheAlphaSpot",
  "categories": ["random", "tech"]
}
```

#### API Routes
`GET` /quotes -> Return All Quotes

`GET` /quotes?author=myAuthor -> Return All Quotes filtered by a specific author

`GET` /quotes?category=random -> Return All Quotes filtered by a specific category

`GET` /quotes?author=myAuthor&category=random -> Return All Quotes filtered by a specific author and a specific category

`POST` /quote -> Add a new Quote

`PUT` /quotes/{ID} -> Update a Quote

`DELETE` /quotes/{ID} -> Delete a Quote

### 3. Currency Converter API
A currency converter is another simple API that you can build by utilizing an existing Exchange Rate API. Search online for an ExchangeRate API and register for one that has a free tier. If you are worried for the number of requests, download the response JSON and store it locally, that way you don't have to fetch the public API every time you make a request to your API.

#### API Routes
`GET` /rates -> Return All Conversion Rates

`GET` /convert?price=100&from=USD&to=EUR -> Convert from one currency to another.

To make sure that your API works as intended, make a conversion between one currency to another and then save the results and invert them in the next request.


Example:
```md
`GET` /convert?price=100&from=USD&to=EUR => 92,47EUR
`GET` /convert?price=92,47&from=EUR&to=USD => Expected to see 100$ (+- 0.01)
```

### 4. Inventory API
The inventory API should provide information about stored objects and their quantities, as well as their creation date and modified date.

#### An Item skeleton
```json
{
  "id": "<uuid>",
  "title": "Programming Book",
  "description": "A book that teaches you the basics of programming",
  "quantity": 10,
  "inStock": true,
  "creationDate": 1706743464280,
  "lastModifiedDate": 1706743464280
}
```

#### API Routes
`GET` /inventory -> Return All Items in the inventory

`GET` /inventory?inStock=true -> Return All Items in the inventory that are in stock

`GET` /inventory?inStock=true&stockDateFrom=1706743464280 -> Return All Items in the inventory that are in stock and are put in stock after the timestamp 1706743464280

`GET` /inventory/purchase?item={ID}&quantity=5 -> Purchase 5 items if they are in stock and the quantity is greater/equal to 5. Update the quantity in the DB.

`POST` /inventory/add -> Add a new item in the Inventory

`PUT` /inventory/edit?item={ID} -> Update an item from the Inventory

`DELETE` /inventory/remove?item={ID} -> Delete an item from the Inventory


### 5. Sudoku Generator
A sudoku generator is a more challenging API that will require knowledge in how to play sudoku, how to build a sudoku game and how to check if the game was solved. This API has complexity level of `Advanced` due to the algorithmic difficulty.

#### A Sudoku skeleton
```json
{
  "id": "<uuid>",
  "board": [
     [1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9],
     [2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,1],
     [3,4,5,6,7,8,9,1,2],
     [4,5,6,7,8,9,1,2,3],
     [5,6,7,8,9,1,2,3,4],
     [6,7,8,9,1,2,3,4,5],
     [7,8,9,1,2,3,4,5,6],
     [8,9,1,2,3,4,5,6,7],
     [9,1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8]
  ],
  "difficulty": "easy"
}
```
#### API Routes
`GET` /sudoku/new?difficulty=easy => Create and return a new sudoku of difficulty easy.

`POST` /sodoku/solve => Submit your sudoku solution and test if it's valid

## Benefits of knowing how to build an API

In summary, it's really important for backend developers to know how to build APIs. APIs help different parts of computer programs work together smoothly. If developers can create good APIs, it makes software development faster, saves time, and reduces repetitive work. Being skilled in API development also means that apps can easily adapt to changes and work well on different devices.

api-ideas-main.jpg

Looking for an inspiration to build an API?

Looking for inspiration? Here are 5 Backend API Ideas that you can build today.

5 API Ideas to Build

## Logical thinking in programming

Logical thinking is like the foundation of a sturdy building when it comes to programming. It's crucial because coding involves creating sets of instructions for a computer to follow, that are similar in a way to how people think, but are more descriptive and they tell exactly how to achieve a task from the start to the end. 

<i style="color: #a00c97;">Example: You want to go from point A to point B. You can't just tell the computer to go from A to B, you have to navigate it precisely by giving it step-by-step instructions to succeed - go 50 pixels to the left, then 100 to the bottom and 30 to the right.</i>

Programming is essentially solving problems, by using logical thinking to break down big, complex problems into smaller, more manageable parts. It allows you to analyze and understand the flow of your code, identify errors, and come up with efficient solutions. Without logical thinking, you might find yourself lost in a maze of code with no idea how to navigate through it.

## Key concepts of logical thinking in programming

### Data Structures
The data structures are one of the core building blocks of programming, that you need to learn in order to be able to solve complex tasks. If you are not familiar with arrays, hashmaps, heaps, queues, etc. you won't know how to apply them when dealing with a problem. Logical thinking plays a significant role in choosing and implementing appropriate data structures. It helps in understanding the relationships between data elements and selecting the right structures to optimize operations like searching, sorting, and retrieval.

### Code Flow
Logical thinking aids in understanding how the program flows from one statement to another. This understanding is crucial for writing code that not only works but is also easy to maintain and modify. Nobody likes complex, unreadable, and unmaintainable code. With logical thinking, you create code that is readable and follows a clear and coherent structure. 

### Abstraction
You can't build a scalable application without abstractions. This ability to break down a problem into smaller, more manageable parts is crucial for designing modular and maintainable code. Logical thinking allows you to abstract complex problems into simpler components. 

### Pattern Recognition
Logical thinking helps you recognize patterns within problems and solutions. This skill becomes super valuable when you face a similar problem in the future. Having the ability to recognize that you've already solved this problem once, will help you solve the same/similar problem faster than the previous time. Moreover, you might have the source code of the previous task from where you can simply copy/paste and adjust the code to properly suit your new application.

## How To Improve Logical Thinking For Programming?
There are quite a few ways of building and improving your logical thinking. Getting better at it isn't a quick fix and it takes time and patience. If you're working on it, remember that every step forward counts. A lot of programmers go through this thing called impostor syndrome, where you doubt your skills and wonder if you're really making progress. Don't let those thoughts get to you. Keep going, stay persistent, and you'll get there.

Having said that, here are 7 suggestions on <strong style="color: #862e9c; font-weight: normal;">how you can improve your logical thinking as a programmer</strong>:

### 1. Practice solving problems

Tackling programming challenges teaches you that there are various ways to solve a problem, each with its unique outcomes. Grasping different approaches and having multiple solutions in mind empowers you to choose the most effective one for a given problem. When I started my developer career I used a tool called [LeetCode](https://leetcode.com/) which helped me to better develop my logical thinking. I started by doing easy problems and gradually moving to more complex ones.

###  2. Data structures and algorithms
Understand how different data structures and algorithms work. This knowledge forms the foundation of logical thinking in programming. Knowing when to use an Array, a HashMap or a Tree will give your application an optimization boost and will help you develop a better reasoning for programming. Knowing how to perform basic algorithmic operations will also benefit you when you need to apply these concepts practically.

### 3. Solve problems on paper

Only part of the programming is actually writing the code in an IDE. You should have a clear idea of how to handle a problem prior to actually typing the solution. A good way of understanding the problem is to write it on paper. Use flowcharts, diagrams, drawings, and whatever else you think might help you visualize the problem better. Once you have the full picture, then you can continue with actually coding it.

### 4. Pseudocode

The pseudocode can also be a way of prototyping how to tackle a problem. Since you already know how certain data structures work, you can use their features directly in the pseudocode.

For example: 
```md
i = 1
queue = empty queue

loop 10 times, increment i with 1 for each iteration
- add i as the last element in the queue

remove the first element from the queue
remove the second element from the queue
print the third element in the queue
```

and then transform the pseudocode into a real one (js example)

```js
class Queue {
   constructor() {
      this.elements = [];
   }

   next() {
     return this.elements.pop();
   }

   add(el) {
     this.elements.unshift(el);
   }
}

var queue = new Queue();

for (var i = 1; i < 10; i++) {
  queue.add(i);
}

queue.next();
queue.next();
console.log(queue.next());
```

### 5. Read code
Analyze code written by others. Understand how they approached problems and implemented solutions. Watch tutorials, and courses but make sure that you understand what they are teaching you and try to create the same applications without looking at the solutions the creators have provided. Try making it yourself. By spending time thinking about the problem and searching in Google you will gain a lot more, than copying their code. When you have a working code, then you can go through the tutor's solution and analyze the differences between your and their code.

### 6. Discuss problems
Engage in discussions with fellow programmers. Explaining your thought process and listening to others can provide valuable insights. Share your knowledge and solve the task as a team. In a real job situation, you will have a team, that will help you with an idea if you get stuck. Don't hesitate to ask for help if you are stuck. Don't give up too fast either.

### 7. Build projects
One of the best things you can do in my opinion is to build your own projects. Challenge yourself with a doable project that pushes your boundaries a bit. Face problems head-on - first, give it a shot on your own, then use Google if needed, and ask a more experienced friend for a nudge. If none of these work, switch perspectives, approach the problem differently, and focus on making it functional rather than polished.

Wondering where to start from? Here are [10 Web Developer Project Ideas for Beginners](https://thealphaspot.com/articles/web-developer-project-ideas-for-beginners/).

## Keep improving
In conclusion, working on your logical thinking for programming is a useful way to get better at it. By practicing problem-solving and algorithms, you can become a more skilled programmer over time. Just take it easy, keep practicing, and you'll see progress. It's all about gradually getting better at how you handle coding challenges. Keep on coding!

Interested in becoming a web developer? See [how long does it take to learn JavaScript](https://thealphaspot.com/articles/how-long-does-it-take-to-learn-java-script/).

logical-thinking-in-programming.jpg

7 Tips for Beginners to improve their logical thinking

Tips on how to improve logical thinking for programming. 

How To Improve Logical Thinking For Programming

## What is coding?
Coding is like giving step-by-step directions to a computer. It's all about organizing these instructions in a way that makes sense to the machine and helps it do what we want it to do. These instructions, written in programming languages like Python or JavaScript, come together to form programs that we use every day, from websites and apps to software on our computers. Coding isn't just about telling the computer what to do; it's about solving problems, making things easier, and bringing ideas to life. It's a creative process that anyone can learn with practice and patience, opening doors to exciting opportunities in technology and beyond.

## Why Learn to Code?
Learning to code can be really beneficial in so many ways. First off, it opens up a ton of job options since lots of industries need people who can code. Plus, it's not just for work—it's a cool hobby too! You can make all kinds of stuff, solve puzzles, and even create your own games or apps. Basically, learning to code is awesome and can make life more fun and interesting!

## How Long Does It Take To Learn JavaScript?
<i>Interested in learning JavaScript particularly? See <a href="https://thealphaspot.com/articles/how-long-does-it-take-to-learn-java-script/"  style="text-decoration: underline;">how long does it take to learn JavaScript</a>.</i> 

<h2><b>How Long Does It Take To Learn To Code</b>?</h2>

Learning to code can be a challenging and rewarding experience. The amount of time it takes to become proficient in coding depends on several factors, including the individual's prior experience, the type of coding they are learning, and the amount of time and effort they are willing to invest.

For those with no prior experience in coding, it can take several months to a year or more to become proficient. This is because they will need to learn the basics of programming, such as syntax, data types, and control structures, before they can move on to more advanced concepts. They will also need to practice writing code and debugging their mistakes in order to become comfortable with the language.

For those with some prior experience in coding, the amount of time it takes to become proficient will depend on their level of experience. Those with some experience may be able to pick up new concepts more quickly, but they will still need to practice and apply what they have learned in order to become proficient.

The type of coding being learned can also affect the amount of time it takes to become proficient. For example, learning a high-level language like Python or JavaScript may be easier than learning a low-level language like Assembly. Additionally, the amount of time and effort an individual is willing to invest will also play a role in how quickly they can become proficient.

Overall, becoming proficient in coding can take anywhere from several months to a year or more, depending on the individual's prior experience, the type of coding they are learning, and the amount of time and effort they are willing to invest. It is important to remember that learning to code is a process, and it takes time and practice to become proficient.

## Wanna give coding a try?

Learning to code can be broken down into several steps.

First, choose a programming language. There are many options, like Python, JavaScript, Java, C++ or other. Consider what you'd like to build when making your choice.

Next, focus on the basics of your chosen language. This includes things like data types, variables, and how to control the flow of your code.

You can solidify your understanding by working on small coding projects and exercises. There are also online communities where you can get help from other programmers. Additionally, many online courses can teach you programming at your own pace.

As you gain experience, try building larger projects to improve your skills and learn new things. Remember, learning to code is an ongoing process. There are always new things to discover, so keep reading, taking courses, and staying up-to-date.

If you are feeling inspired, check the recommended articles from the category below.

Curious about coding? See how long it takes to become a developer.

Curious about coding? Wondering how long it takes to get the hang of it? Dive into our blog for a beginner-friendly guide! Explore the path from coding newbie to pro, with tips to help you along the way. Start your coding adventure now!

The Alpha Spot

THE ALPHA SPOT

Programming