How to become a Full Stack Developer - No Experience Required

Ever wondered what full stack is and what exactly Full Stack Development involves? Full stack includes both the user interface (front end), which is what you see on a website, and the server-side operations (back end), handling software, data processing, and other crucial parts that make the website work. Full-stack development is a mix of creative front-end design and technical back-end architecture, making it a dynamic field covering the whole range of web development.

Designed for beginners, this guide provides a clear path to master essential skills in both front-end and back-end development. Whether starting from scratch or enhancing your skill set to meet industry demand, it's your launchpad into the vast world of full-stack development. Despite overwhelming acronyms, becoming a full stack web developer is accessible. This article guides you through basics, introduces tools and technologies, and helps you understand How to become a Full Stack Developer for a rewarding career.

Who is a Full Stack Developer and What do they do?

A Full-stack web developer is a developer or engineer who can build front-end (client side) and back-end (server side) software of a website. In simpler terms, they function as both front-end developers and back-end developers simultaneously.

Front-end developers are like the architects of a website. They design and optimize visible parts of websites, ensuring they work well on different devices like phones, tablets, and computers. On the flip side, back-end development involves programmers creating and improving the internal software that runs the company's databases, servers, and custom applications.

According to Stack Overflow 2023 Developer Survey, almost 33 percent of developers identify as full stack professionals, while 17.8 percent identify as back end, and 6.6 percent as front end.

How to become a Full Stack Developer? An 11- step guide

Ready to step into the world of full-stack development? Follow these steps to start your career as a full-stack developer:

1. Acquire the necessary education

2. Finish the course

3. Learn the Key Programming Languages and Tools

4. Develop your Skills

5. Engage in volunteer, open-source, or freelance projects, and actively participate in coding challenges to build your portfolio

6. Create a GitHub Profile

7. Seek a Full-Stack Development Internship

8. Your Network is crucial

9. Take guidance from a mentor

10. Practice coding exercises daily

11. Update your resume and start your job search

Acquire the necessary education

Obtain the necessary education to establish the foundation for your full-stack development career. Various paths are available to explore, let’s see some of them.

Foundational Knowledge

Before committing to a degree or an online program, it's beneficial to have a basic foundational knowledge of full-stack development. This includes essential computer skills, familiarity with design principles, and a beginner's grasp of HTML and CSS. While you'll learn more about these topics later, having a preliminary understanding is advantageous.

Formal Education/University Degree 

While it is not mandatory, a college degree is a traditional path to becoming a full-stack developer. It is recommended to pursue a bachelor's degree in computer science, software development, or software engineering.

Bootcamp

Bootcamps provide a quicker and more cost-effective route to becoming career-ready compared to traditional universities. Their three to six-month timeline programs ensure an effective learning experience. For example, Crampete’s Full Stack Developer Bootcamp provides a practical and focused alternative.

Hackathons and Coding Competitions

Participate in hackathons and coding competitions to challenge yourself and apply your knowledge in a competitive yet collaborative environment. These events offer a unique opportunity to showcase your problem-solving abilities and network with like-minded individuals.

Self-Taught Route

While it poses challenges and may not be suitable for everyone, the self-taught route remains a suitable option. It requires meticulous planning compared to bootcamps or university programs. Numerous instructional videos on YouTube cover full-stack development, but if you opt for the self-taught path, examining actual code on platforms like GitHub is essential.

Finish the course

To start your journey as a full-stack developer, the best approach is to finish a software engineering prep course. Even if you're new to coding, these courses cover the basics in just 4-6 weeks. These courses also offer you the opportunity to connect with mentors currently working in the field, providing a valuable advantage as you begin your job search.

Learn the Key Programming Languages and Tools

To become a skilled full-stack developer, you need to master essential programming languages and tools. Let's look at them:

Programming Languages

Start with JavaScript, the most essential language for full-stack developers, leading with over 63.61% popularity according to the Stack Overflow 2023 Developer Survey. Once you're confident with it, think about learning skills in React, Java, LeetCode, Node, Python, Ruby, PHP, and C#.

Tools

In addition to programming languages, you should be comfortable working with the following tools as well:

1. Text Editors: Use platforms like Visual Studio Code and Atom for efficient code editing.
2. Terminals or Consoles: Use these interfaces to run your commands and code.
3. Database Storage: Familiarize yourself with systems for storing data needed for the websites or mobile applications you're creating.
4. Version Control: Learn GitHub for tracking changes and collaborating on your codebase.
5. Integrated Development Environments (IDEs): Explore tools like IntelliJ IDEA or Eclipse for comprehensive coding support and features.
6. Containerization Tools (e.g., Docker): Understand how to use Docker for efficient deployment and scaling of your applications across different environments.

Develop your Skills

Your education is just the start of refining your full-stack developer skills. To get better, here's what you need to keep learning:

Technical Skills:

The top skills you need to know to become a full-stack developer include HTML, CSS, Javascript, DOM Manipulation, SQL/NoSQL, Java, and Object-Oriented Programming. Additionally, You can learn:

1. JavaScript Proficiency: Learn to work with JavaScript environments like NodeJS and ExpressJS, along with their frameworks.
2. Deployment Skills: Understand how to deploy applications on web hosting platforms such as Amazon Web Services, Heroku, or Microsoft Azure.
3. UI and API Knowledge: Get to know usage of UI (user interface) and API (application programming interface) libraries for front-end development process.
4. Database Management: Learn how to use databases, understand concepts like organizing data and using SQL. Get to know database systems like MySQL, PostgreSQL, or MongoDB.

Soft Skills:

Being a full-stack developer is not just about what you know technically. You also need some soft skills, like:

1. Communication: You need to have strong communication skills to effectively explain your work to non-technical team members and collaborate with different teams.
2. Adaptability: As a full-stack developer, you must handle both front-end and back-end applications. So, you need to be flexible when transitioning between the two.
3. Project Management: Project management skills are useful, especially later in your career when you lead both front-end and back-end teams.
4. Problem-Solving: Develop strong problem-solving skills to handle challenges during development. Being able to troubleshoot and find effective solutions is crucial for a successful full-stack developer.

Continuously improving in these areas will not only enhance your technical expertise but also make you a well-rounded and effective full-stack developer.

Engage in Volunteer, Open-Source, or Freelance Projects, and Actively Participate in Coding Challenges to build your portfolio

Build your full-stack developer portfolio by engaging in volunteer work, contributing to open-source projects, or taking on freelance opportunities. Showcase your skills by creating apps and websites for local businesses through volunteer projects. Additionally, consider taking up small freelancing jobs to gain practical experience and enhance your portfolio. Stay active in the coding community by participating in coding challenges on platforms like Hackathon and HackerEarth. 

Create a GitHub Profile

Having a GitHub profile is an excellent way to display your portfolio. It allows you to connect with other developers and collaborate with them. Through GitHub, sharing code files becomes easy, and you can track different versions within each project.

All professional developers maintain GitHub profiles, and many companies require this. Knowing your way around GitHub, as one of the essential version control systems, is necessary for the field.

Seek a Full-Stack Development Internship

After building a portfolio and acquiring some educational background, you can begin applying for internships. This is an opportunity to put your knowledge into practice and gain hands-on experience in full-stack development.

Your Network is crucial

Building a strong network is key to securing internships and jobs. Here's how:

1. LinkedIn: Connect with industry leaders and actively engage with their posts. This not only increases your visibility but also lays the foundation for meaningful professional relationships.
2. Online Communities: When facing challenges in your projects, turn to online communities such as Reddit, GitHub, Hashnode, and Stack Overflow. Ensure that you contribute by assisting others as well. Adding value to these platforms is an effective way to expand your network.
3. Conferences and Meet-ups: If you prefer traditional face-to-face networking, attending conferences and in-person meet-ups is an excellent avenue for you to connect with professionals in your field.
4. Professional Organizations: Consider joining esteemed professional organizations such as the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM), International Association of Software Architects (IASA), or Web Professionals. This enables you to connect with peers, participate in industry events, and stay updated on the latest trends and opportunities in full-stack development.

Take guidance from a mentor

Getting a mentor can be really helpful, but it's not always easy to find one. Instead of actively looking for a stranger, let the relationship happen organically. An internship is a great opportunity for this to happen.

Practice coding exercises daily

Practice coding every day as part of your job application preparation. Coding exercises are a common part of interviews, typically lasting 30-40 minutes. Regular practice not only strengthens your skills but also reduces the anxiety often associated with job hunting.

Update your resume and start your job search

After gaining experience through internships or building a portfolio, start applying for jobs. Customize your resume for each position to demonstrate that you've carefully thought about the role and are not applying randomly. This tailored approach enhances your chances of making a meaningful connection with recruiters.

Is it difficult to become a Full Stack Developer?

No, it is not difficult to become a full-stack developer, especially with a clear plan. Whether pursuing a degree, attending a bootcamp, or self-teaching, understanding your strengths and preferences is crucial. Figuring out whether to start with front-end or back-end development is important. While the journey involves learning both front-end and back-end technologies, steady effort and being open to new technologies make it a doable and rewarding path.

How much can a Full-Stack Developer earn?

Salaries for full-stack developers can vary significantly based on your career stage. Here's a breakdown:

• The full stack developer salary in India for freshers (entry-level graduates) is ₹475,000 per annum.
• An early career full-stack developer with 1-4 years of experience typically earns an average annual salary of ₹665,650.
• With 5-9 years of experience, an employee has the potential to earn between INR 12-13 lakhs. According to PayScale, the average salary for a mid-level full-stack developer in India is ₹1,275,126 per year.
• A Senior Full stack developer in India with over a decade of experience receives a competitive salary, averaging ₹2,700,000 annually.

Click here to learn more about Full Stack Developer Salary in India 2024 - For Freshers and Experienced.

How to find Full Stack Developer Jobs Online

Getting a full-stack developer job in today's tough job market needs a smart online search strategy. If you're good at both front-end and back-end development, you should check out platforms that focus on tech jobs. Here are popular websites to help you find and apply for full-stack developer jobs.

1. GitHub

2. Indeed

3. Glassdoor

4. LinkedIn

5. Job boards like Stack Overflow, Dice.com, F6S, AngelList, Mashable.

6. Networking is the key if you are looking for a job. Joining Slack Tech Communities like #DevChat, and DevOps are good platforms to connect with other full-stack developers.

7. Additionally, You can also explore specific programming channels like PySlackers, Elixir, Elm, FEDs on Slack, and Slash Rocket.

Is a career in full-stack development suitable for me?

Yes, full-stack development could be the right career for you. Many developers enjoy the balance between front-end and back-end tasks. However, it's important to note that this role requires effective coordination and collaboration with team members. If you're good at working with others and enjoy having different types of tasks, full-stack development might be a great match for you.

To get started, consider joining a program Crampete’s Full Stack Development. It's a training program that can help you learn the necessary skills and join a supportive community to become a full-stack developer professionally.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How to become a full stack developer after 12th?

After finishing high school, you can start learning how to do everything in computer development. You can get a degree in computer science, learn how to write code, make websites, and get hands-on experience through internships or freelance work. This will help you become a full-stack developer.

2. How to become a full-stack Java developer?

To become a full-stack Java developer, start by learning the basics of Java through self-study or formal courses. Consider enrolling in a computer science program to deepen your understanding of programming principles. Seek apprenticeships or internships to gain hands-on experience in real-world projects. Build a strong portfolio showcasing your Java skills and relevant experience. Regularly update your resume to reflect your continuous learning and project contributions.

3. What's the experience of working as a Full-Stack Developer?

As a full-stack developer, your day involves using various skills like HTML and CSS for web development. You balance working alone and collaborating with the team through messages and meetings. Your tasks include coding, helping others with issues, and planning for the future.

4. How to become a full stack developer from scratch?

To become a full-stack developer from scratch, start by learning the basics of programming and web development. Master both frontend and backend technologies, showcasing your progress through projects on GitHub. Stay informed about industry trends and keep expanding your skills.

5. What are some valuable resources for finding Full-Stack Development jobs?

For Full-Stack Development jobs, start with LinkedIn for career advice and job openings. Explore job boards like Stack Overflow, Dice.com, AngelList, F6S, and Mashable. Utilize your network by letting them know you're looking for a job, as personal recommendations can boost your chances. Join tech communities on Slack, such as #DevChat, or specific programming channels like PySlackers, Elixir, and Elm, to connect with fellow full-stack developers.