Tony de Araujo - JavaScript in Plain Language - A Self-Study Method: JSON and AngularJS Prep

The Spiral approach for code learning

This eBook utilizesthe idea of a spiral approach for code learning as outlined below:

1- Thehistory of development is preserved.

2- Simplesolutions are provided first and then replaced by more advanced, robustsolutions.

3- Onlythe concepts used in a spiral are explained, with links for further readingmaterial.

Each project conserves its incremental history as a snapshotof something useful to review, like a spiral. The spiral approach is a techniqueoften used in teaching where first the basic facts of a subject are learned,without worrying for detail. Then as learning progresses, more and more detailsare introduced while at the same time they are related to the basics which arereemphasized many times to help the internalization of concepts.

No memorization is needed .

• The book must be read in sequence for a more effective, powerful and meaningful experience.
• The exercises should be repeated not just right after finishing the current lab work, but also after finishing the whole section or reading the whole book.
• Practice like you would be practicing guitar: every day and with intent. Think of JavaScript exercises as scales to be played.
• After finishing an exercise, always think on how you would apply the concepts covered for a different recipe. Think like a master chef. Programing is like cooking.
• Programming is also like plumbing. We create interfaces by facilitating connections.
• Finally, programming is part science part art. It brings together the best of both worlds.

JavaScript is a programming language designed to interactwith the computer browser. There is currently no other language with the samebrowser compatibility as JavaScript. Most of those languages trying to replaceJavaScript actually decompiletheir code into JavaScript.

What is the difference between JavaScript and HTML?

HTML is a presentation markup language. It creates objects (containerboxes) that get displayed on the page. It does not make decisions based on userinteraction. HTML paints the computer screen.

JavaScript extends HTML in the sense that it makes the pagedynamic by interacting with the user based on certain conditions and outcomes.

In order to create outcomes and make decisions we need tolearn JavaScript syntax and thats what this book is about.

In later chapters we will learn how to create modern webinteraction using one of the latest implementation techniques called AngularJS.

The book will not make you an expert in AngularJS. It willhowever give you a very solid foundation to empower you and propel you forwardinto more advanced concepts.

This book follows a hands-on approach. Please be prepared foran extensive workout.