What is JavaScript? JavaScript Codes and Tutorials

Introduction

JavaScript is the language behind the majority of websites. It allows website creators a way to offer an interesting and dynamic interface. It has grown in popularity because it is not very difficult to learn the language it uses, yet it provides a significant amount of power. It is the power behind the security of many websites, and makes websites user friendly. Even non-programmers are able to use JavaScript without running into many programming issues. There are many tutorials available to help learn JavaScript along with its features and benefits.

What is JavaScript

JavaScript is a programming language that uses scripts to perform tasks. It was first developed as way to create more interesting web pages that could also be interactive. Along with adding interaction to pages on a website, it can also link together different web based programs such as HTML pages. JavaScript is used to modify forms, open new web pages, and create dynamic content on a web page. It uses a system of variables, operators, control structures, and functions to create a user-friendly interactive web page.

How is JavaScript Used

JavaScript is used to make websites interactive. HTML was developed for the sole purpose of giving the user the ability to view documents. The problem with HTML and its static presence is that computers are capable of much more. With JavaScript, an HTML page can be turned into an interactive tool. JavaScript can be added to an HTML document in three different ways. The most common way is to embed the code between two script tags. A specific JavaScript code can also be placed right within an HTML tag. A code can also be placed in a completely different file. The code is then called over to the HTML page by using an SRC attribute.

Creating Dynamic Content

JavaScript has many benefits, including the ability to create web content that is dynamic and interactive as opposed to hard coded content. The “write” function is one way that web developers are able to do this. Using the “write” function allows different text to be shown depending on user’s preferences or their answers to questions. Dynamic content can be a script that can be programmed to show something different every time a page loads. JavaScript is also used to create the advertisements on websites, alerts, and the security features that some websites have for their users to sign in. When an image on a page changes as the mouse moves over it, it is because of JavaScript. This can be used to draw the attention of the user to a specific link.

Other Features of JavaScript

JavaScript has many different features. It has the ability to detect a user’s browser and operating system. This allows the script to perform specific tasks related to a specific browser. All browsers have accepted the scripting language of JavaScript and they all provide support for it. Other languages may need a flash plugin in order to see flash content. Since all browsers support JavaScript, there is no need for this.

JavaScript is a functional programming language. This means that it uses functions to perform tasks. These functions can be manipulated and can be connected to other functions for an unlimited scope of possibilities. JavaScript can also validate input from users. If they put in the wrong information, they will get an error message. This can be done right on the user’s web browser. Other programming languages have to wait for server access.

Additional Resources

What is JavaScript A basic introduction.

Examples of JavaScript An definition of JavaScript and some examples of it.

Techniques Some tips on creating accessible JavaScript.

Overview A basic overview of JavaScript and how it is used.

JavaScript Kit A list of references.

JavaScript Reference A list of links to JavaScript resources and guides.

What JavaScript is for How JavaScript works.

JavaScript Resource A huge JavaScript resource page.

Programming An introduction to the JavaScript language.

Language Reference A list of the elements that make up the JavaScript language with explanations.

HTML How to use JavaScript in an HTML page.

JavaScript Tutorial How to add JavaScript to a page.

Web Developer Links to several articles on how to use JavaScript.

JavaScript for the Non-Programmer A basic JavaScript tutorial for the non-programmer.

Using JavaScript JavaScript tutorials on how to create an alert.

How to Create Using JavaScript A list of several different JavaScript tutorials.

Creating Content  A tutorial on adding content to a page.

Ajax Tutorial A tutorial on how to use ajax.

Including JavaScript on a webpage How and where to include the scripts on a page.

Embedding JavaScript Information for beginners.

Creating Content in Internet Explorer A tutorial on creating dynamic HTML content in Internet Explorer.

Creating Content A tool to help create content on a webpage.

Features of JavaScript Four of the power features of JavaScript.

JavaScript Language Features An explanation of the language features.

Features A matrix of web browsers and available JavaScript features.

Useful Features Some features that are not as common.

Javascripter A list of tasks used with links to more information.

Pros and Cons Some of the pros and cons of using JavaScript.

Advanced Features A list of advanced features.