In recent years, web development has become one of the most in-demand careers. Companies are looking for developers who can help create beautiful and functional websites that attract consumers, investors, and other target audiences. People who understand the ins and outs of HTML, CSS, PHP, and other programming languages can be worth their weight in gold. However, many people are intimidated by the thought of learning web development. They think it's too difficult or that they need to have a coding background in order to get started. But this isn't true! In fact, anyone can learn about web development without prior experience or knowledge.
If you're interested in starting a career as a web developer, then you've come to the right place! In this article, we have put together the best books in the market you can read to excel in web development regardless of your experience.
5 Books That Will Show You the Ropes to Web Development (Coding)
Learn to Code HTML & CSS: Develop & Style Websites by Shaye Howe
Simple and comprehensive, Learn to Code HTML & CSS: Develop & Style Websites takes you through the basics of coding via detailed introductions, hands-on exercises, and insightful tips. Whether you're a total beginner or someone with a basic understanding of web development, Howe’s book will teach you the fundamentals and introduce you to the building blocks of front-end web development: HTML and CSS. When you’re done with the book, you’ll start designing websites in no time!
Eloquent JavaScript by Marijn Haverbeke
Eloquent JavaScript is a book that will have you hit the ground running with JavaScript as quickly as possible. This book isn't a reference book or a book of best practices—it's not even a "How do I build an app?" book. It's a fast-paced, in-the-trenches guide to getting started with web development using JavaScript. Authored by Marijn Haverbeke, Eloquent JavaScript is all about learning JavaScript from the ground up. It doesn’t just cover the parts of JavaScript that are immediately useful for making websites, but it also imparts the knowledge you’ll need if you want to become a JavaScript programmer.
HTML & CSS Design by Jon Duckett
Design, build, and bring HTML & CSS to the web with this straightforward book by Jon Duckett. Perfect for people new to coding, HTML & CSS Design provides all the information you need to create well-designed websites, including detailed tutorials and helpful tips on page layout, colours, and fonts. You’ll also learn the fundamentals of web design using the latest features of HTML5 and CSS3, master the basics of creating your own websites, discover how web pages work, and hear what professionals have to say about the best practices.
JavaScript and JQuery by Jon Duckett
JavaScript and JQuery is another cutting-edge book by Jon Duckett that provides an in-depth look at the newest versions of the two programming languages. Duckett guides readers using practical examples of how to apply dynamic effects using JavaScript and JQuery while covering everything there is to know to create JavaScript-driven websites, from making calculations and animations on websites to deploying codes in various frameworks and everything in between.
Clean Code by Robert C. Martin
Web developers would agree that all code should be as clean as a sparkling kitchen counter. Not only is this a matter of pride and professionalism, but the ability to add features to your application quickly and easily will save you a ton of money. Clean Code delivers more than just a checklist for writing code. The book teaches you how to think about software development as well as all the principles, rules, and habits it takes to become a great software craftsman.
How To Gain Practical Knowledge in Web Development (Coding)?
After reading one or more of the aforementioned books to learn the basics of web development and coding, you would definitely want to gain some practical knowledge so you can show off your skills to recruiters in your CV.
A great starting point is Xccelerate’s bootcamps—Full-time Web Development Bootcamp and Part-time Web Development for Beginners Course. Both programs offer in-depth, hands-on training that can teach you everything you need to know about coding fundamentals and web development. They also provide access to a community of developers who can help you continue learning even after the program is over and launch your web development career. If you're interested in knowing more about our bootcamps, you can read about our students’ experiences before signing up for a course that piques your interest.
When your new skills in web development and coding get you an interview in your dream company in Hong Kong’s web development industry, make sure to familiarize yourself with the frequently asked questions so you are well prepared to ace it.
Career Paths
Career pathways include; Front-end Developer, Back-end Developer, Full-stack Developer and more! Explore our job ticker to learn about Hong Kong's Web Development industry and make career decisions based on actual data! To learn more about relevant job openings in Hong Kong, check out the first-ever tech job search portal - Xccelerate Jobs.
