Learning MERN stack will add value to your skillset. Many people believe that you only need to learn one programming language to become a software developer. Software developers work with many different technologies. They can be linked together and build on each other to achieve their goals.
The MERN stack is one the most used sets of technology in a developer’s arsenal. Let’s now learn how to get started with all the pieces.
What is a Technology Stack?
A technology stack is a combination software, database, programming language. It’s a collection of elements that are combined to make programming easier. It will usually include both front-end technologies as well as back-end systems.
Each section of the stack deals in a different function. You wouldn’t create a graph in Microsoft Word. Instead, you would use Excel to create the graph and then copy it to your document after you’ve done the calculations in Excel. The same principle applies to technology stacks.
What is MERN?
MERN is an open-source stack for developers that allows them to create dynamic websites and apps. It uses JavaScript across all technologies. Each letter in the acronym stands to represent a different technology.
MongoDB – This is the back-end database. It stores all the data that the programmer will require. MongoDB stores its data as documents and not as tables, which is how most databases work. It can store data of many types in one place.
Express.js is a web framework. This provides all the tools necessary to host a website and automate tasks. It is built on top of Node.js.
React – This JavaScript library contains a list of commonly used functions. It is used to create user interfaces and other components in JavaScript.
Node.js – This allows you to quickly build JavaScript applications. It runs JavaScript directly on your machine without you having to go through your browser. This allows you to quickly build your JavaScript applications.
JavaScript is a must-know subject
All these components are run on JavaScript. JavaScript is very simple and fast. It’s not perfect. It’s not the best language. Some older browsers don’t support it. And it can be difficult to debug. It’s still one of the most popular languages.
MEAN Stack is a possibility.
There are many stacks that perform similar functions. One of these stacks is the MEAN stack. You should not confuse the two. The main difference between MEAN and React is that Angular is used instead of React. This means that code written with one will not work with the other.
1. JavaScript: Learn JavaScript
JavaScript is required to use all these tools. You will need to know JavaScript. There are many resources available, including key books and online tutorials. We recommend that you start with these:
Learn JavaScript – Full Course for Beginners – This three-and-a-half-hour video walks you through everything you need to know to learn the basics of JavaScript. To skip to the correct section, make sure you open the description.
Codecademy – There’s a lot of courses on Codecademy to help you get started. While you will need to purchase a membership to access the pro lessons, there are still many free materials.
JavaScript and JQuery by Jon Duckett. This book will guide you through JavaScript learning, assuming you have no prior knowledge. It also includes plenty of practice exercises.
Once you have a good grasp of the language, you can begin to experiment with the other tools. Don’t jump in to MERN without understanding the basics. Otherwise, you won’t be able to understand a lot of the functionality.
2. Get familiar with the tools
Once you have mastered JavaScript, or at least enough to write a few simple scripts, you will want to explore the various tools and play with them. Each tool comes with its own documentation, which you will need to read in order to get to know the tool.
MongoDB guides – These official guides will show you how to set up a new MySQL database, host it in a cloud, and migrate any data.
Express.js – This guide will help you install, set up and run your first program. Additional guides are available on the site if you require more detailed information.
React – You can use the playgrounds and tutorials to learn how to use the libraries. You can either learn by doing, or follow their step-by-step guide.
Node.js – These guides will guide you through the setup and core concepts.
3. Start a Simple Project
After you have learned JavaScript and played with the tools, it is time to create a simple project. This will not only make it easy to add to your portfolio later, but it’s also the best method to learn. A simple project without any guidance is all that’s needed.
