What is KAJS?

Aidan Benjamin
Jul 23, 2017 · 2 min read
The King of Code

A brief Overview of KAJS

KAJS, otherwise known as Processing.js, is the main language Khan Academy teaches students. It is a library of JavaScript (Processing) adapted from the oh-so-popular Processing language. The library itself is geared towards coding, where the results are easy to see. For example, it has many custom drawing tools, such as rect();, ellipse();, and triangle();. It is extremely easy to understand, and even easier to write. Beginners can write things like fill() and stroke to change colours, which are both self-explanitory.

Why you should start learning how to program with KAJS (or something like it)

KAJS is a fantastic language to start with. It was my first language, and has taught me more about coding and the world of CS than any teacher I’ve had. I originally did it with my dad, and Khan genuinely makes it fun. Granted, if you’re doing this for a school project, fun isn’t really the priority, but it makes it far more enjoyable. Plus, it’s in the Khan Academy environment, and there’s a great community out there, just waiting to answer cries for help.

Another good language to start learning code with is Lua. Lua is also a library of JavaScript, and has far more functionality than Processing.js. Let’s look at some Pros and Cons of the two:

KAJS vs Lua: Which is a better starting language?

KAJS (Pros):

— Built in image libraries.

— Decent code editor, good syntax highlighting.

— Incredible tutorials and guides.

KAJS (Cons):

— Restricted access to things like LocalStorage and file manipulation.

— Small result window; you can ultimately code as big as you want, but you either have to stick some data on the back of the link to expand the viewing window, or go with the highest through “Settings” (600x600).

Lua (Pros):

— Built in image libraries.

— Great functionality and allocations.

— Multi-file projects (as opposed to KAJS’s single file programs).

Lua (Cons):

— No helpful community.

— Not widely supported (KAJS has the same problem, but Lua is more of a serious library.)

In conclusion…

Ultimately, both KAJS and Lua are great libraries. They’re great for graphics, they’re great for drawing, and more importantly learning, but if you really want a serious language, use Processing.

So, Long Story short, KAJS is a fantastic way to learn. Personally, I prefer is over other libraries, like Lua. Once your scripts get past 10,000 lines, though, it’s probably time to switch languages.

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