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General Discussion

Posted by Mayur Pande
Mayur Pande
Courses Plus Student 11,711 Points

Should I learn javascript?

I'm asking the question, as for the most part I have been just using php and mysql to build the backend for sites and then use html and css for the front end. However if I need something in javascript (for example a menu icon for mobile view) I just find a script online and don't bother learning about it and just plug it into my site.

I am asking this because at the moment I don't really see the need in it. However I have read articles stating that it is important to learn. Also as I am still in the learning process of PHP will I be too overwhelmed learning two different languages at one time?

1 Answer

Andrew Rady
Andrew Rady
20,880 Points
Andrew Rady
Andrew Rady
20,880 Points

I would say yes....I am a php developer(thanks to treehouse) and I work mostly with PHP and MYSQL at work, but end up using JavaScript everyday. While I do not dive into it as much as a front-end developer I use my fair share and understand it enough so if my boss wants something done I can do it myself, or know where to look to get the info to get the job done.

On a personal note I use JavaScript a lot on personal projects because I can't really brush something for someone else to do it. My opinion is that you do not need to be an expert in it as a back-end developer, but knowing it will improve you value as a programmer greatly.

Mayur Pande
Mayur Pande
Courses Plus Student 11,711 Points

Hi Andrew,

Thanks for the reply, I am hopefully following in your footsteps to become a php developer. Do you have any tips you would like to share on what to how to get there, projects to code, open source projects?

Thanks to your advice I will start giving JS a go as well.