A Beginner’s Guide To Front End Development

Frontend development brings websites to life by making them look and feel alive. It has been developed in such a way that users can see and interact with it.

The front end covers a wide range of elements such as buttons, animations, layouts, and colors. In case you are a novice who is just learning web creation, then this beginner’s guide is for you.

More so, we will look at what front end development is, what front end developers do, and the languages and tools they use.

This blog on front end development can help you learn how to become front end developer.

So, without any further ado, let’s get right into it.

What is Front End Development?

If you are wondering what is frontend, then the front end development is all about the creation of that part of a site that the user sees and uses.

It is the “front” of a website subject to every single user action; hence, it comprises buttons, menus, and texts as well as images, colors, and layout.

HTML, CSS, and JavaScript are the three programming languages that front end devs use to create sites that are beautiful and functional.

They make sure the site’s design looks good on whatever device the user is using. This means the site looks good on a smartphone, tablet, and PC.

Front end development is the process of converting a design concept into functioning sites. It is the point where imagination and technology meet.

That is the union of design, coding, and problem-solving in order to make user-friendly and beautiful online experiences that would capture the visitors’ attention and keep them engaged. 

Front End Development vs Back End Development: What’s the Difference?

Front end development deals with the parts of the application that users see and interact with – the design, layout, and visuals of a website. In contrast, back end development operates behind the curtain.

It takes care of the data, servers, and databases to ensure everything at the front end is running smoothly and working correctly.

That is why back end vs front end developer is a thing, as both sides work on different parts of a site.

Here’s an overview of the differences between front end development and back end development:

Feature	Front End Development	Back End Development
Focus Area	What users see and interact with on a website	What happens behind the scenes to make a website work
Main Goal	Create a smooth, attractive, and user-friendly experience	Handle data, server logic, and website functionality
Common Languages	HTML, CSS, JavaScript	Python, PHP, Java, Ruby, Node.js
Tools & Frameworks	React, Angular, Vue.js, Bootstrap	Express, Django, Laravel, Spring Boot
Works With	Browsers and user interfaces	Servers, databases, and APIs
Example Task	Designing a navigation bar or homepage layout	Storing user login info or managing website data

What Does a Front End Developer Do?

Front end developers bring websites to life. They turn design concepts into functional sites that look good and run well across devices and browsers.

Here are a few key responsibilities of a front end developer:

Create User Interface 

A front end designer creates the bits of a site that people see and interact with. These things include the buttons, menus, sliders, and so on. More so, devs make sure sites look good with UI.

The front end developers make the site fit the brand. A front end web designer also makes sure it’s easy to use. A good front end web design means people can use the site easily and find what they are looking for without confusion.

Optimize Performance 

A site needs to be fast and smooth regardless of the device or internet speed. Frontend developers do things like optimizing images, making less code, and doing a general performance boost.

They also help the users not to experience any delay or malfunctions. High performance always attracts and retains visitors and is one of the factors that improve a site’s position on search engines.

Ensure Responsiveness

Making the site visually appealing across all device screens is a must on huge computer monitors and the smallest mobile phones.

Front-end developers apply responsive design techniques, allowing the layout to vary with the screen size.

Such a practice improves the site’s accessibility on any gadget since there is no longer any need for zooming and uncomfortable scrolling.

Ensure Accessibility 

People use the internet in their own way. A few users rely on things like text readers to use sites.

To make sure that everyone can access the sites, the front end programmers follow the principles of accessibility.

They make use of the right coding methods, text contrast, and colour sets to allow disabled people and others to navigate and understand the content easily.

Test and Debug

A single bug can twist a website’s layout or freeze a button mid click, throwing its design and functions off balance.

Front-end developers test every detail with care, clicking links, pressing buttons, and filling forms. They do this to be sure each feature works just right.

When something breaks, they jump in fast, patching the glitch so the site hums along without a pause.

Collaborate with Teams

Front end developers work alongside other teams. They collaborate with designers who are drawing new layouts.

More so, they work with back end developers who construct the core functionalities of a website.

On the other hand, project managers ensure that the whole front end engineering team is working as per the timeline and is on the same page with other teams.

Front end devs turn the designs and mockups into real sites. More so, they test every aspect of the site to make sure it’s perfectly aligned.

This includes the buttons, images, and text. Working with other teams allows front end developers to solve issues quickly.

This way, the front end application development is done fast. More so, it creates sites that meet client requirements as well as have a user-friendly experience..

Maintain and Update 

The work for a website is not over after it gets launched. The site needs to be updated on a regular basis, such as updating pictures or changing a title every now and then.

Front end developers look after the site after it has launched by fixing bugs, releasing new features, and improving the site’s speed.

This can entail reducing the loading time of a page that used to take seconds or even minutes. More so, they update the styles to modernize them according to trends or users’ preferences.

For instance, using softer colors when minimalism is the trend. This way, the site remains fresh, secure, and appealing. This scenario is similar to a window that has just been cleaned for the visitors who are returning.

Programming Languages for Front End Development

Here are some of the main programming languages that front end developers use:

HTML 

HTML is the main programming language of the front end. It stands for Hypertext Markup Language. HTML is the heart of every site.

It organises the content, such as text, images, and links. More so, it tells the browser what to show. Think of it as the framework of a site that supports everything. Without HTML, a site would have nothing to show.

CSS 

CSS stands for Cascading Style Sheets. It deals with the aesthetic side and design of a site. It regulates the whole visual aspect: colors, fonts, layouts, and even animations.

By using CSS, front-end developers can not only design but also upgrade sites to be modern, uncluttered, and engaging to the eye. It is the factor that transforms simple text into a striking, properly designed, and well-organised webpage.

JavaScript 

JavaScript makes websites interactive and dynamic. It adds function by allowing elements to move, change, and respond upon clicking, scrolling, or typing, for that matter.

For instance, image sliders, menus that drop down, and notifications that pop up are all brought to life via JavaScript. JavaScript is what adds “life” to a site and makes it engaging rather than just static and dull.

Popular Front End Development Frameworks and Libraries 

Some of the most popular frameworks and libraries that front end developers use are as follows:

React

React is among the leading and most famous JavaScript libraries. It is developed by Facebook.

The developers can construct the user interfaces that are very fast and interactive with the help of React. React is based on a component model.

Therefore, every part of the web page (such as buttons or forms) is created, to say, separately and then is used easily again.

This results in a coding process that is quicker, as well as more organised and less difficult to look after.

Angular

Angular is one of the more capable front end frameworks. It is developed by Google. Angular is the ideal framework for creating large-scale, dynamic web apps.

Angular uses TypeScript. It has features like two-way data binding and integrated testing tools. Angular is a favorite among devs. That is because it allows them to do front end work with ease and create fast and responsive sites.

jQuery

jQuery is a light JavaScript library that makes the work of webflow front end development much easier for things like animations, event management, and AJAX requests.

It allows devs to create a greater output with less code. Despite the fact that the newer frameworks have a massive following nowadays, jQuery remains a favorite for devs.

That is because it is one of the simplest and dependable front end development tools, as it allows a frontend software engineer to make fast web improvements.

Vue.Js

Vue.js is one of those front end tools beginners use thanks to its ease of use. It is a JS framework that allows devs of a front end agency to create an interactive and smooth UI.

More so, it merges the features of React and Angular. This way, Vue becomes easy to integrate into various projects. Devs are fond of it owing to its ease of use, superb performance, and minimal learning time.

Bootstrap

Bootstrap has been a marvelous front end toolkit for web designers, and it has made the web design process very fast.

It offers a wide range of features, such as pre-designed templates, buttons, and grid systems, ready for use.

The developers will have no problem at all in making mobile-ready sites that will look attractive on any hardware.

It is a step forward; there’s no reason to go back to ground zero when using Bootstrap,  the whole design process gets rapid.

Svelte

Svelte is a new framework that, with its performance and ease of use, is gradually getting recognized.

One of its advantages over others is that it compiles the code at build time which results in lesser runtime performance.

Consequently, it assists programmers by allowing them to write less code while generating highly interactive websites.

The weight of Svelte makes web pages not only load fast but also run smoothly on all kinds of devices.

Ember.js

Ember.js is a solid framework for constructing brave web applications. It has many features itself and the guidelines that keep the same rules for all projects.

Professional programmers prefer Ember since it cuts time and makes less work through fewer repetitions.

It is the right option for complicated apps that require a strong base and are going to be scalable for a long time.

Semantic UI

Semantic UI prioritizes web development that is closer to human beings in terms of communication.

It depends on a straightforward and easy to read code that resembles ordinary English. The fast designing process, along with a neat and good looking site, is the reason why it gets developers’ appreciation.

By means of its lovely and pre-styled components, Semantic UI provides a way out for easy creation of responsive and eye-catching web interfaces.

Essential Skills Every Front End Developer Must Have

Front end developers need more than just coding knowledge. They must have a mix of technical and soft skills, some of which are as follows:

Problem-Solving 

Bugs, layout problems, or code errors are typical issues that front devs encounter. Problem-solving capabilities allow devs to pinpoint the exact problem and fix it right away.

The issues could be related to anything from buttons to a page taking too long to load. Therefore, devs have to come up with solutions fast.

This ability keeps the websites functioning properly and guarantees a pleasant experience for the users.

Paying Attention to Detail 

A tiny coding error may lead to a major design problem. Therefore, front-end developers have to be accurate and take their time.

The fact that they have to monitor the minutest of detail guarantees that every single element, be it buttons or fonts, looks and functions absolutely as it should.

Besides, it helps in building neat and refined sites that users enjoy using due to the uninterrupted experience.

Written and Verbal Communication Skills

Devs work with designers, customers, and back end teams. Transparent communication enables all to understand each other well.

Having good writing and verbal skills makes it easy to present concepts, tell about current activities, and recognize the priority for the project.

Good communication makes sure that all the right steps are taken for the project. This way, the final results meet everyone’s expectations.

Creativity

Originality is the factor that distinguishes a website from others. Creative thinking of front end developers is applied to come up with visually appealing layouts and extraordinary user experiences.

They mix art and coding to create interactive and captivating websites from plain ideas that make users keep coming back.

Teamwork

Front end development is not a solo job. Developers collaborate with other teams to realize a common goal.

Collaboration requires keeping an eye on the little things and hearing all the suggestions. It also involves showing your thoughts and assisting your colleagues.

When all the people involved work together as a unit, the projects are finished quickly. More so, outcomes also meet expectations.

Average Salary for Front End Developers

The salary for a front end developer, on average, can be quite different based on the developer’s level of experience, skills, and the place where he/she work.

At the very beginning of their careers, developers get paid quite well. However, those with a solid track record can get up to much higher salaries.

If you are wondering how much do front end developers make, then on average, a front end developer makes between $100,000 and $140,000 per year, as per Indeed’s Reports.

Devs who know frameworks like React earn even more. With tech constantly changing and AI coming into the mix, the future of web development is a safe one.

The question is not whether will AI replace web developers, but instead will developers get on board the AI train and use AI to their advantage.

So, from the looks of things, the online development jobs market for skilled front end developers is wide open. Therefore, becoming a front end developer is a great and rewarding job in terms of salary.

Where Do Front End Developers Work?

Front end developers have flexible career options. These working options are as follows:

Freelancing

Freelance front end developers work on their own and accept assignments from different clients. They relish the freedom to decide on their working hours, clients, and the nature of projects.

The freelance developers can work in different industries, create a strong portfolio, and earn according to their skills and the amount of work. It is a perfect alternative for those who consider independence and diversity important.

In-House 

In-house front end developers are embedded in the internal team of a company. They have a close working relationship with the designers, marketers, and other developers to keep up and enhance the website or app of the company.

This kind of model assures the employee complete job security, regular income, and the opportunity for promotion within the firm. It is perfect for those who enjoy working in a group and like a systematic setting.

Remotely 

The remote front end devs are able to operate from any part of the planet and require nothing more than a laptop and an Internet connection.

Their home ambitions and the struggle against the pandemic in 2020 have led companies to hire remote workers.

Thus, they can cut down on their office expenses and at the same time have the chance to recruit the most skilled people from anywhere in the world.

The modern way of working brings along an easy-going, relaxing atmosphere and a more balanced life-work relationship. That is why it is becoming the top option among contemporary coders.

How to Become a Front End Developer

Becoming a front end developer takes time, practice, and curiosity. Here are a few steps to becoming a front end developer:

Step 1: Learn the Programming Languages

Developing sites depends on a good knowledge of programming languages. The spotlight should be on the three basic languages: HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. The HTML language defines the entire layout of the website.

On the other hand, CSS deals with the design side of things. Lastly, JavaScript takes care of the interaction between the user and the site.

The employment of these languages constitutes the most vital part of front-end development operations.

There are various sources available for you to explore. You can learn from things like tutorials, coding boot camps, YouTube videos, etc.

However, practice is the main thing among all these; you might do small projects like developing a personal portfolio or a basic landing page to show that you have understood the application.

Your skills in coding will improve with more practice.

Step 2: Learn Developer Tools and Software

Front-end software engineers employ numerous instruments to accelerate and simplify their tasks.

You must get the hang of code editors like VS Code, Git as a version control system, and the testing of code via browser.

These frontend development tools are going to be your allies in writing code that is not only cleaner but also more powerful.

It will allow you to identify bugs and errors in your coding and fix them right away. More so, use GitHub. This is where you can show off your skills and work with people.

Using these tools is definitely a huge plus. It will not increase your confidence in coding and prepare you for developer jobs.

Step 3: Understand Frameworks and Libraries 

Getting the confidence in basic coding first is a must, and then you can go straight to the use of frameworks and libraries like React, Angular, or Vue.js.

These are the modern tools that help very much in the creation of interactive websites with less effort than the traditional ones. Thus, they are more effective than the old ones.

They come with pre-written code and ready-to-use components. This saves time and labor.

Mastering them not just increases your talent but also makes you more valuable in the job market.

Begin with one framework, go through its documentation, and develop little projects out of it. Gradually, you will learn how to utilize these tools for producing excellent and responsive web applications.

Step 4: Learn Essential Workplace Skills

A front-end developer’s role includes soft skills along with technical knowledge. This way, they can efficiently work in a team.

Being very clear in communication, managing one’s time properly, and having creative ways to come up with solutions are the main points.

Focus on the smallest design details and remember to test your work before showing it.

Another benefit is that you are aware of the basic UX principles. This is a great advantage. It allows you to create sites that look good and are easy to use.

All these skills make you a great developer. More so, you become a valuable team member who can handle projects with ease.

Step 5: Step into the Job Market and Continue Learning

Once you have the necessary skills, you should make a portfolio including your greatest works. Get experience by doing an internship.

Or you can work as a freelancer or by taking fresher jobs. You must engage in online communities and contribute to open-source projects.

More so, you must stay up to date with tech and trends. Tech changes shape the world of front end development, so keeping up with the new stuff is a must.

More so, learning will keep your skills fresh and will eventually lead you to become an expert developer who can deal with any difficulty that the internet world brings to him/her.

Why Choosing a Professional Front End Development Agency Matters

Working with a professional front end development agency is a smart investment for many reasons. Here are a few reasons why you should choose a front End development agency:

Cost-Effective in the Long-Term 

At first, bringing in professionals might come off as pricey. However, it is a cost-effective move in the long run.

Skilled devs create sites that are efficient and free from errors. More so, their sites require fewer corrections and maintenance. More so, they make the site scalable.

This means the site is ready for future expansion. Also, this removes the need for expensive redesigns down the line.

In the bigger picture, partnering with a web development company for a site is a great move. It means less stress and better results.

Higher Conversion Rates

A top-notch frontend agency not only knows how to create a site but also has a strategy behind it. They create sites in such a way that users are pleasantly taken to a desirable action- be it sign-up or purchase.

Aesthetic design, user-friendly navigation, and fast load times all contribute to a better user experience. All of this results in higher conversion rates. And this, in turn, helps a business grow.

Faster Web Pages

Speed matters a lot in web design. Web developers of an agency use clean code, image optimization, and caching techniques to speed up the site.

Fast pages create a good user experience. It also minimizes bounce rates. All of this helps you get a better ranking on SERPs. A skilled team makes sure your site works well on every device.

 

Post-Completion Support and Maintenance 

A top frontend development company does not stop working after the launch of the project. They offer maintenance services, security updates, and technical support on a continual basis in order to make sure that the best performance of the site is being maintained.

This also means that your website is not going to be outdated in terms of tech and web standards. You feel relaxed because you’re being supported by the specialists.

Get Started With Artisticore for Your Front End Development 

Do you have a vision for your website that you want to see come to life? Then you are in the right place because at Artisticore, we offer Front-end Web Development Services.

Our front end web development company uses creativity and the latest front end software and tech.

More so, we have a team of developers who create sites that are fast, responsive, and visually appealing and function well on all devices.

If you need a completely new site or just want to upgrade an old one, our front end development agency delivers sites that offer engaging and user friendly experiences.

Also, our post-launch support helps keep your website at its best performance. So partner with Artisticore’s front end development company today and watch your online presence come to life.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it, folks, that is the end for this blog on front end development. We hope that with this blog you can understand what does front end mean. More so, we compared front end developer vs back end developer, and what each side deals with on a site. As you know, front end development is the heart that gives life to sites and makes them look good.

Therefore, understanding the front end is a must if you are learning to create sites. But if you want to make your website really stand out, partnering with professionals like Artisticore can help you big time. Our team of web developer vs front end developer guarantees that your site will be fast, aesthetic, and scalable. So, partner with Artisticore and start your web development project today.