Unlock the Power of JavaScript: A Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Started
JavaScript is a versatile and widely-supported programming language that can run on all major operating systems. But before you can start coding, you need to set up your system to run JavaScript code.
Getting Started with JavaScript
You have two options to run JavaScript code: install Node.js on your system or use an online editor to execute JavaScript directly in your browser. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the installation process on Windows, macOS, and Linux (Ubuntu).
Installing JavaScript on Windows
To install JavaScript on Windows, follow these easy steps:
Step 1: Install VS Code
Download the Windows installer from the official VS Code website and follow the installation process.
Step 2: Download Node
Download the Node LTS version from the official Node website.
Step 3: Run the Installer
Run the downloaded msi file and follow the installation prompts.
Step 4: Verify Your Installation
Open the command prompt and type node --version to verify that JavaScript is installed.
Installing JavaScript on macOS
To install JavaScript on macOS, follow these easy steps:
Step 1: Install VS Code
Download the Mac installer from the official VS Code website and drag Visual Studio Code to your Applications folder.
Step 2: Download Node.js
Download the Node LTS version from the official Node website.
Step 3: Run the Installer
Open the downloaded.pkg file and follow the on-screen instructions to install Node.js.
Step 4: Verify Your Installation
Open the command prompt and type node --version to verify that JavaScript is installed.
Installing JavaScript on Linux (Ubuntu)
To install JavaScript on Linux, follow these easy steps:
Step 1: Install VS Code
Open the Terminal and update your package lists with sudo apt update. Then, install VS Code with sudo apt install vs-code.
Step 2: Install Node
Go to snapcraft and click install to get the command to install Node. Open your Terminal and paste the command to install Node.
Step 3: Verify Your Installation
Open the Terminal and type node --version to verify that JavaScript is installed.
Running Your First JavaScript Program
Now that you’ve set up your system to run JavaScript, it’s time to write your first program!
Step 1: Create a New File
Open VS Code, click on File, and select New File. Save the file with a.js extension (e.g., helloWorld.js).
Step 2: Install Code Runner
Open VS Code, click on Extensions, and search for Code Runner. Click on install to enable code execution.
Step 3: Write Your Code
Write the following code into your helloWorld.js file: console.log("Hello World").
Step 4: Run Your Code
Click on the run button on the top right side of your screen. You should see “Hello World!” printed to the output.
You’re now ready to start learning the basics of JavaScript programming!