Getting Started with JavaScript in Visual Studio Code

Are you a beginner in the world of coding, eager to learn how to use JavaScript in Visual Studio Code (VS Code)? You’ve come to the right place! In this beginner-friendly guide, we’ll walk you through the basics of running JavaScript in VS Code. By the end of this article, you’ll have the confidence to write and execute JavaScript code, even if you’re just starting your coding journey.

Are you ready to explore the exciting world of JavaScript in VS Code? Let’s dive in, and I’ll explain everything in simple terms so you can follow along easily.

Chapter 1: Setting Up Your Coding Playground

Before we start coding, we need to set up our environment. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Install Visual Studio Code (VS Code).

• First things first, you’ll need to have VS Code on your computer. You can download and install it for free from the VS Code website. Just choose the version that matches your computer (Windows, macOS, or Linux).

2. Get Node.js:

• JavaScript needs a unique tool called Node.js to run on your computer. You can download and install Node.js from its official website. Choose the LTS (Long Term Support) version for stability.

3. Install Some Helpful Tools:

• In VS Code we can add some extra tools to make coding easier. Look for extensions like “ESLint” (to help with code quality) and “Prettier” (for formatting your code). You can find and install these extensions from inside VS Code.

Chapter 2: Writing Your First JavaScript Code

Now that your coding environment is set up, let’s write your first JavaScript code! Follow these steps:

1. Open VS Code:

• Launch VS Code from your computer’s applications or start menu.

2. Create a New JavaScript File:

• Click “File” in the top menu and select “New File.” Save the file with a name like “myscript.js” and make sure it ends with “.js” to tell VS Code it’s a JavaScript file.

3. Write Some Code:

• Inside your “myscript.js” file, type the following code:
• javascriptCopy code
• function sayHello() { console.log('Hello, world!'); } sayHello();

4. Save Your File:

• Don’t forget to save your file by clicking “File” in the top menu and selecting “Save” or by pressing Ctrl + S (or Cmd + S on Mac).

Chapter 3: Running Your JavaScript Code

You’ve written your first JavaScript code. Now, let’s run it:

1. Open the Integrated Terminal:

• Go to the “View” menu at the top and select “Terminal.” This opens a unique window inside VS Code where you can type commands.

2. Navigate to Your Project Folder.

• Use the cd command in the terminal to go to the folder where you saved your "myscript.js" file. For example, if you saved it on your desktop, you can type cd Desktop.

3. Run Your Code:

• Now, type node myscript.js and press Enter. Your JavaScript code will run, and you'll see the message "Hello, world!" printed in the terminal. Congratulations, you've just run your first JavaScript program!

Chapter 4: Making Your Code Better

Coding is not just about making things work; it’s also about making your code neat and easy to read. Here are a couple of tips:

1. Indentation:

• Use spaces or tabs to keep your code nicely aligned. It makes your code easier to understand.

2. Comments:

• Add comments (lines that start with //) to explain what your code is doing. This helps you and others understand your code later.

Conclusion: Your JavaScript Journey Begins!

You’ve taken your first steps into the world of JavaScript in Visual Studio Code. Don’t worry if you’re still getting the hang of it — every coder starts somewhere! As you practice and explore more, you’ll discover the incredible things you can build with JavaScript.