Full-stack developers are known for their versatility due to their proficiency in front-end and back-end development. They are multi-talented professionals who handle complex projects and build websites or apps from scratch. Many consider them highly skilled coding wizards who can solve problems and fix errors.
Full-stack development is one of the most lucrative and trending jobs in the tech industry. The demand for full-stack developers was at its peak during the pandemic, and a recent study suggested that the field will witness a 20% jump in the coming years. The reason is that they are well-versed in all tools, technologies, and frameworks used to build powerful websites and applications. Moreover, full-stack developers skills include expertise in creating impressive and rich user experiences, user interfaces, and design patterns.
No wonder the web development domain is growing by leaps and bounds, with an average full-stack developer salary ranging between INR 4-10 LPA and above according to Glassdoor. We know that full-stack development sounds fascinating and fun, but joining this elite club is not a cakewalk.
You might have to overcome a few challenges and face uncertain situations while trying to make it big in the industry. However, it is your skills and capabilities that will help you keep going and achieve your dreams.
So, in this blog, we will discuss essential and in-demand full-stack skills you need to build to become an adept developer.
What is Full Stack Web Development?
Full-stack development refers to the process of handling the two key aspects- front-end and back-end, of a website or web application. It includes designing the part of a website that users see and interact with, such as images, buttons, forms, etc., and the one that people don’t see but affects a website’s functionality, such as databases, servers, etc.
Full-stack developers carry out the tasks related to full-stack development using their proficiency in front-end and back-end technologies and languages.
Full-stack development skills include crafting client-side elements using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript while incorporating frameworks, such as Angular and React, for designing dynamic interfaces. The back-end portion includes managing server-side functionalities, server configuration, and databases, such as Python (Django), JavaScript (Node.JS), and Ruby (Ruby on Rails).
Becoming a full-stack developer demands an understanding of both front-end and back-end development. These developers must possess skills in crafting visually appealing websites and web applications and ensuring that each element works seamlessly.
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Who is a Full Stack Developer?
Before we learn about the roles and responsibilities of a full-stack developer, you need to gain a fair knowledge of two crucial parts of web development- front-end and back-end development, and each website and app has these two sides.
The front-end part includes all the visual elements that users see or interact with, whereas the back-end portion is all about behind-the-scenes actions, where all the magic takes place. It includes business logic, running solutions, and storing data.
Front-end developers work on interfaces, wireframes, and visual components of a website, handling everything that users see on their screens while using a website or app. Back-end developers build the logic and architecture of a website so it works smoothly. They manage data flow and data storage. So, proficiency in front-end and back-end technologies and tools are the key full-stack developer skills required to make a promising career.
Full-stack developers layer and run the tech stacks of front-end and back-end together, including servers, databases, operating systems, frameworks, libraries, environments, and more.
Also Read: Top 10 Full Stack Project Ideas in 2024 (With Source Code)
Top Skills for a Full-stack Developer (2024 List)
To become a Full-stack developer, you don’t necessarily need a formal degree. However, you need extensive knowledge and skills to make a dream career and establish yourself as an industry leader. Here is a quick overview of the top 11 full-stack web developer skills that will help you reach new heights in your career.
- HTML and CSS
- JavaScript
- Git and GitHub
- Operating Systems
- Back-end Technologies and Frameworks
- HTTP and REST
- Web Architecture
- Database Management Systems
- Monitoring Tools
- Fundamentals of Designs
- Testing
1. HTML and CSS
Hypertext Markup Language (HTML) is a front-end programming language used to administer the text, images, and visual elements of a website. It takes care of the structure of a web page, so it follows a proper hierarchy of headings, paragraphs, pop-ups, and more. It comprises tags that add a different meaning to the text in a document format.
Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) is a style language to change or add style to HTML elements, such as spacing, font, size, etc. For example, if you want to add colors to the headings and main content, you can do it using CSS personalization tools. It makes a web page decorative and appealing.
HTML and CSS play key roles in determining the look and appeal of a website, so that it can attract maximum potential customers and engage them.
Full-stack developers should have an understanding of HTML and CSS. The former helps them define the structure of a web page, while the latter ensures effective presentation of HTML elements. Expertise in both is essential for developing intuitive, interactive, and engaging websites and web applications.
2. JavaScript
JavaScript is an essential part of a full-stack developer skills set, and you can’t be an accomplished developer without mastering it. JavaScript is an object-oriented and dynamic language used by developers to add behaviors to HTML that make the website more interactive. It is used for both front-end and back-end development due to its dynamic nature.
It is the only programming language that can run natively on the server-side and in the browser. Due to its adaptability with browsers and integration with HTML and CSS, it makes development hassle-free and efficient. Full-stack developers must acquire knowledge of JS and understand related frameworks and concepts, including React, Angular, and Vue. React Native, and more. It also offers several useful features, such as prototypes, closure, high-order event delegation, functions, etc., that make web pages responsive. Moreover, developers must stay updated with new libraries, tools, and frameworks and upskill themselves. To learn JavaScript and other web development technologies, take our online web development course, which prioritizes practical learning and hands-on experience.
3. Git and GitHub
To be proficient in version control systems, you need to develop a strong understanding of project management and track the entire history. Knowledge of VCS helps you address many issues and provides developers with a platform to share and discuss their ideas with others.
There are many amazing version control systems, such as GitHub, Git, Apache Subversion, and GitLab. The most popular of all is Git, an open-source distributed version control system that handles all the development needs. Hence, most developers and aspiring developers have heard of it. Git is known for its exceptional speed and efficiency in small and large-scale projects.
It allows developers to solve errors, track progress, and manage changes made to code, apps, websites, documents, and other information related to development. They can also add snapshots of changes made, go back, and make all the required modifications.
Most professional developers have a GitHub profile, a popular platform developers use to work, manage, and review a project with a team. GitHub creates a hub for networking and interactions for developers with their teams. They can track each change and update done to the codebase. Enrol in our full-stack developer course to learn every technology and tool practically.
Moreover, they must know all the basic Git commands and examples. GitHub uses Git features to offer developers a perfect platform. Git allows developers to explore unique productivity, security, and management opportunities. Also, they can easily collaborate and interact with fellow developers for a project. It increases work efficiency by making working with codes easier. Any web development project may seem a bit incomplete without Git and GitHub.
4. Operating Systems
As you create software, website, or app, one key factor is choosing the platform it will run on. Even if you are developing software to run locally, it will need a machine, which would broadcast its existence on an operating system. Hence, proficiency in operating systems is among the top required full-stack web development skills.
This is the first decision you make while designing any software or app. In addition, you need to take care of a few crucial factors while working on an operating system. First, decide the right operating system, whether macOS, Android, Linux, or Windows.
Also, you must learn a few basic things, including threads and concurrency, memory management, inter-process communication, distribution file system, process and process management, visualization, and I/O management and scheduling.
Also Read: Full Stack Developer Course Syllabus 2024: Fees, Duration, Eligibility, Details
5. Back-end Technologies and Frameworks
We have discussed front-end languages, HTML, and CSS, but it’s also important to understand the back-end languages and technologies to be a full-stack developer. You can choose from numerous back-end tools and languages for your full-stack project.
a) PHP
It is one of the most commonly used programming languages for back-end development and is known for being resilient, fast, and efficient. It is a cross-platform language compatible with macOS, Unix, and Windows. It is available for server-side scripting and has powered various leading websites and applications. One factor that makes PHP stand out from other languages is its user-friendly attribute. Also, its huge community and its constant support add to its popularity.
b) Java
Java is a multi-purpose and innovative ‘class-based’ programming language used for developing applications for desktops, web, and smartphones. Its array of frameworks simplifies the web development process. Java is also known for its huge ecosystem, which enhances its adaptability. So, any developer looking for a comprehensive solution for back-end development can learn it without a second thought. No wonder it is one of the top full-stack developer skills worldwide.
c) Python
Python includes popular frameworks, Django and Flask, which makes it a leading back-end programming language. It has a short learning curve, simple syntax, a vast collection of frameworks and libraries, and varied features, making it a popular choice among developers and beginners who use it for high-level and structured programming. It is simple and readable, so developers can build powerful and scalable apps and websites efficiently.
d) Ruby
Ruby is a robust programming language used for web development. It has simplified code, object-oriented principles, and dynamic typing. Also, it offers several methods and approaches to solve an issue during coding, making it different from other languages. It boasts dedicated community support, excellent documentation and dependencies, and more. Its open-source framework, Ruby on Rails, enhances the efficiency of developers.
All the above-mentioned languages help full-stack developers become more proficient and skilled in their jobs.
6. HTTP and REST
HTTP, also known as Hypertext Transfer Protocol, is responsible for enabling everyday work while interacting with the internet. Hence, it powers data communication on the web. It also manages communication between clients (web browsers) and servers (cloud) using their responses and requests.
REST, or Representational State Transfer, is an architectural standard that makes it easier for computer systems to communicate with each other. It uses HTTP to collect data and perform different operations. Also, it translates between the frontend and backend, which makes it among the important skills required for full-stack developer.
7. Web Architecture
Full-stack developers are considered masters and wizards in the web development landscape. They must possess front-end and back-end technical skills to make a successful full-stack career and excel in the field. This also ensures that they work smoothly on a project, designing rich user interfaces and offering memorable user experiences. They must also be familiar with the nitty-gritty of web architecture because they also develop software, websites, and apps from the ground up. They should know how to design a pattern of a website by combining all the elements that users interact with.
Hiring managers and project managers expect them to know about structural elements and UI elements, such as cloud storage, database servers, DNS, etc. They should also have an understanding of categorizing files, structuring the code, computational tasks, structuring the data, and more.
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8. Database and Storage
No matter what website you design, it will have a database to store data. For example, if it’s a website for an IT service company, it will have data related to customers filling out the form, services offered, and so on. Similarly, an e-commerce website will have data related to products and users. Social media websites have data regarding posts and users.
Hence, database management is a vital skill for full-stack developers to know where and how data is stored. They should be able to write queries to extract the right data when required, for which they need to gain knowledge of data structure. This allows them to manipulate and assess data and database queries, which is a major part of their job.
The two most important databases are SQL and NoSQL. MongoDB is a NoSQL database service. Almost all companies use either or both databases based on their requirements and services offered.
Have a look at two major databases that you need to work on as a full-stack developer:
Relational Database
- SQL
- PostgreSQL
- MySQL
Non-Relational Database
- NoSQL
- MongoDB
- Apache Cassandra
Also Read: Full Stack Developer Salary in India 2024 (By Location & Company)
9. Monitoring Tools
When a team is ready to push a website or app LIVE and introduce it to users, it can encounter a few issues. Hence, monitoring comes to the rescue. Full-stack developers evaluate each and every element and aspect of a website and monitor server status, application logs, etc., to avoid uncertain crashes and address any issue that can come in the way of making it live. For this, they must use different monitoring tools, which is one of the full-stack developer key skills to seek the following benefits:
- These tools ensure end-to-end monitoring.
- You can monitor containers, servers, and more.
- They help predict and analyze errors and requirements.
- They also enable performance monitoring, including log and metrics monitoring.
- Tools address complex issues easily and prevent any chances of a crash.
10. Fundamentals of Design
Although full-stack development is a distinct job from designing, full-stack developers still need to possess design skills because of the diverse nature of their job. As they are responsible for front-end and back-end development, basic knowledge of design can often come in handy while developing a website. It will help them make a website more appealing, interactive, user-friendly, and dynamic, which are key factors to engage users. Proficiency in design principles will also be useful in understanding user psychology while building the front end of a website.
11. Testing
Last in our full-stack developer skills list is testing. It is a crucial skill to ensure the successful execution of a website or software. It includes testing an app or database layer to check that the website, app, or software is free from any bugs or glitches that can hamper its working. Testing includes three different categories- structural, functional, and non-functional. The following are a few common tools developers use for testing:
- TurboData
- Data Generator
- Data Factory
Full Stack Soft Skills
To be an accomplished and reliable full-stack developer, you need to acquire the right balance of necessary soft skills and technical skills. Below, we have shared a few soft skills that you must have:
1. Analytical Skills
It includes analytical and logical thinking to analyze data accurately, troubleshoot problems, make data-driven decisions, and provide efficient coding solutions. You can’t learn this skill theoretically but build it when you work on real-life projects and gain hands-on experience.
2. Strategic Planning
Planning is always the most critical stage of any development process. Hence, full-stack developers must know how to plan each stage meticulously, from design and development to implementation and maintenance, to streamline the entire development lifecycle.
3. Time Management
You will also be responsible for prioritization, task organization, and timely delivery of projects while maintaining quality and productivity.
4. Constant Learning
You must be open to learning and upskilling yourself consistently, exploring new opportunities, and adapting to industry trends.
5. Attention to Detail
You would be reviewing code thoroughly for accuracy and quality. Your job will be to identify bugs and fix errors to run the website or app seamlessly.
6. Creativity
You need to have a creative approach to deliver innovative and user-friendly solutions.
7. Patience
No matter how tough the situation is, you need to remain calm and composed. This will help you solve complex issues, overcome all the challenges, generate optimal outcomes, and focus on important tasks.
8. Problem-Solving
This skill will enable you to predict and fix problems and errors in advance to avoid any obstacles. As a problem solver, you will make sure that all tasks are completed within the stipulated time and without much hassle.
Also Read: Is Full-Stack Developer a Good Career? (2024 Guide)
FAQs Related to Full-stack Developer Skills
If you are interested in technology and have the determination to learn, you can become a skilled full-stack developer within a few months. Start by getting familiar with the basics by watching tutorials and reading e-books. Take an online full-stack development course to get practical training and hands-on experience. When you learn from industry experts, you get insights that can help your career. Learn about frontend and backend development, master different technologies, including HTML, CSS, PHP, JavaScript, Java, etc, get familiar with the frameworks and libraries, build projects, expand your network, follow industry leaders, join communities, and stay updated with the industry trends.
As a full-stack developer, you must possess several technical and soft skills. Your technical skills must include PHP, JavaScript, HTML, CSS, operating systems, databases, HTTP and REST, monitoring tools, web architecture, and testing. Soft skills include strategic planning, leadership, problem-solving, analytical, attention to detail, and communication.
According to Glassdoor, a full-stack developer’s average base pay range in India is between ₹4L-10 LPA. However, salary packages may vary according to company size, expertise, experience, location, and other factors.
You don’t need specific experience to start your career as a full-stack developer, at least for beginner-level roles. It’s your skills and knowledge that matter. So, acquire the necessary skills, like HTML, CSS, Python, database management fundamentals, JavaScript, etc., to find a lucrative job. Also, try to do an internship and build a few projects to create a solid portfolio.
Full-stack development is one of the most sought-after job roles in India. You can find many vacancies across industries, and employers are paying handsome packages to deserving candidates. Full-stack development will continue to dominate the job market and ensure a promising career.
The time required to become a skilled full-stack developer depends on your learning capacity, dedication, practice, and experience. Usually, you can learn full-stack development within 4-6 months by joining a full-stack web development course. Make sure to practice consistently and upskill yourself to grow in this fast-paced industry.
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Conclusion
As you prepare for a full-stack development career, make sure that you work on building the above-mentioned skills. They may seem overwhelming, but sheer dedication and hard work can make things easier for you. You simply need willingness and focus to learn, and rest will fall in place. You don’t have to be perfect, but just be confident and open to learning.
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