1. How to use this path
JavaScript · 56 pages source format
JavaScript is learned by typing, not by watching. This path moves from values and functions through DOM and async to testing and the event loop — the mental models that unlock frameworks and automation. Block 1–1.5 hours most days. Checkpoints gate the next phase; do not skip them.
What you'll learn
- Weekly rhythm and deliverables
- Tools you need (all free)
- What “job-ready JS” means at junior level
Study pace
Plan 8–14 weeks at 8–12 hrs/week. Weeks 1–3: fundamentals and data. Weeks 4–6: DOM and async. Weeks 7–10: modules, testing, event loop. Weeks 11–14: reading codebases and polish.
- Recommended: 10–12 weeks at ~10 hrs/week
- Accelerated: 8 weeks at 2 hrs/day
- Slow track: 14 weeks — consistency beats speed
Do this now
Block calendar slots for the next 7 days. Create a GitHub repo named js-journey — you will push to it starting Chapter 2.
Tools setup
Node.js (LTS), VS Code or Cursor, Chrome or Firefox DevTools. No framework required until you finish this path.
node --version # v20+ recommended
npm --versionDo this now
Run node --version and npm --version in terminal. Install the ESLint extension. Bookmark MDN and javascript.info.
Rules of the road
Type every example — do not copy-paste blindly. Use === not ==. Prefer const. Checkpoints are gates: pass criteria before advancing. When stuck >30 min, read the doThis box and do only that.
Do this now
Add a README to your repo with your target finish date and “done looks like…” paragraph.
Pro tip. The browser console and Node REPL are your best friends. Run code constantly.
Checkpoints are contracts
Each checkpoint has pass criteria. Treat them like exam requirements. Employers probe the same skills in interviews.
Do this now
Scroll ahead and read Checkpoint A and B pass criteria now. Note them in your README.