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Setting up Development Environment

In order to write and run JavaScript code, you need to set up a development environment. A development environment is a set of tools and configurations that allow you to write, test, and debug code efficiently. In this guide, we will walk you through the process of setting up a development environment for JavaScript. Here are some of the tools you will need to set up a development environment for JavaScript:

  • Text Editor: A text editor is a tool that allows you to write and edit code. There are many text editors available, but some popular options for JavaScript development include Visual Studio Code, Sublime Text, and Atom.
  • Web Browser: A web browser is a software application that allows you to view and interact with websites. Most modern web browsers come with built-in developer tools that allow you to inspect and debug JavaScript code. Examples of popular web browsers include Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Microsoft Edge.
  • Node.js: Node.js is a JavaScript runtime that allows you to run JavaScript code outside of the browser. It comes with a package manager called npm that allows you to install and manage JavaScript libraries and tools. You can download Node.js from the official website.
  • Git: Git is a version control system that allows you to track changes to your code and collaborate with other developers. It is a powerful tool that is widely used in the software development industry. You can download Git from the official website.
  • Command Line Interface (CLI): A command line interface is a text-based interface that allows you to interact with your computer using commands. Most operating systems come with a built-in command line interface, such as Command Prompt on Windows, Terminal on macOS, and Terminal on Linux. You can use the command line interface to run JavaScript code, manage files and directories, and perform other tasks.

FYI: If you are new to JavaScript, I recommend checking out the official MDN Web Docs for more information. Personally, I recommend using Visual Studio Code as your text editor, Google Chrome as your web browser, Node.js as your JavaScript runtime, Git as your version control system, and a Linux-based command line interface for development.E.g using Ubuntu on Windows Subsystem for Linux(WSL) or using a Linux Virtual Machine.

Install Visual Studio Code​

Visual Studio Code is a free and open-source text editor that is developed by Microsoft. It is a powerful tool that is designed for web development and comes with many features that make writing and debugging code easier. You can download Visual Studio Code from the official website.

Install Google Chrome​

Google Chrome is a popular web browser that is developed by Google. It is known for its speed, security, and developer tools. You can download Google Chrome from the official website.

Install Node.js​

Node comes with a package manager called npm that allows you to install and manage JavaScript libraries and tools. You can download Node.js from the official website.

Install Git​

You can download Git from the official website.

Install Command Line Interface (CLI)​

Most operating systems come with a built-in command line interface, such as Command Prompt on Windows, Terminal on macOS, and Terminal on Linux. You can use the command line interface to run JavaScript code, manage files and directories, and perform other tasks.

If you are using the Visual studio code Editor, you can open the terminal by pressing Ctrl + ~ on your keyboard.

Helpful Extensions for Visual Studio Code​

Extensions are add-ons that provide additional functionality to Visual Studio Code. Here are some helpful extensions for JavaScript development:

  • ESLint: A linter that helps you find and fix problems in your JavaScript code.
  • Prettier: A code formatter that helps you format your JavaScript code according to a set of rules.
  • Live Server: A development server that allows you to preview your web pages in the browser without having to reload the page.

Conclusion​

Setting up a development environment for JavaScript is an essential step in the software development process. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you will be able to set up a development environment that allows you to write, test, and debug JavaScript code efficiently.

Next, we will be talking about JavaScript in the Browser

Made with ❤️ by Fasakin Henry