An Introduction to JavaScript—and Why Software Engineers Love this Programming Language

By Dan Pickett

August 24, 2022

There are hundreds of programming languages out there—so many that it can be difficult for aspiring software engineers to know where to begin.

So we’ll let you in on an industry secret: when learning to code, one of the most valuable places to start is with JavaScript. Almost every web-based piece of software incorporates HTML, CSS, and JavaScript in its codebase, and mastering JavaScript is critical to becoming a successful software engineer.

At Launch Academy, we focus heavily on JavaScript in our coding bootcamp. If you’re considering enrolling and need a primer on this programming language, you’ve come to the right place!

What Exactly Is JavaScript?

JavaScript is one of the most ubiquitous coding languages in existence, with one study suggesting that it’s used by 12.4 million developers worldwide.

It falls under the umbrella of object-oriented programming, though it’s technically considered prototype-based. Prototype-based programming enables developers to create objects in code without first defining their class. JavaScript conforms to ECMAScript standards, which ensure that web pages across different browsers are interoperable.

Web pages use JavaScript to display dynamic content, like animated images, interactive maps, and almost anything else that isn’t static.

Why Coders Love JavaScript

There are many reasons JavaScript is essential in the computer programming world, but here’s what truly makes it stand out among other programming languages:

1. Efficiency

One of the most desirable aspects of JavaScript is that it can be used on both the front and back end of the stack.

This flexibility creates synergy between front and back-end engineers by eliminating the need to translate computer programming languages between teams. It streamlines the entire development process, which is especially attractive to high-growth startups that benefit from every last bit of added efficiency.

2. Ecosystem

JavaScript has an incredibly robust developer ecosystem. Software engineers who use it gain access to a world of resources, allowing them to focus on delivering business value instead of reinventing the coding wheel.

Many code libraries are built around ReactJS, Angular, and Svelte frameworks, which give developers the building blocks of code in JavaScript to make meaningful software. The source code editor VS Code is also built specifically for JavaScript.

3. Testing and structure

Between the Jest testing framework and TypeScript, JavaScript developers have two great resources for preventing coding errors.

With the Jest testing framework, developers have the opportunity to test new features in their applications to ensure that they don’t break what they’ve already coded into the system.

TypeScript is a language built on top of JavaScript that enables developers to bring rigidity to their software structure. It prevents mistakes by creating clear lines to color within when writing code.

JavaScript is at the core of our curriculum at Launch Academy—and with good reason. Not only does it position you to be a front-end, back-end, or full-stack developer, but it also gives you the skills you need to land your first job as a junior software developer.

Interested in learning more about JavaScript? Download our coding bootcamp syllabus, and dive into the exciting world of computer programming languages with Launch Academy!