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Essential Developer Tools Every Beginner Should Know

Developer Hub
1/10/2024
3 min read min read

Essential Developer Tools Every Beginner Should Know

As a new developer, choosing the right tools can significantly impact your productivity and learning experience. This guide covers the essential tools every beginner should have in their toolkit.

Code Editors and IDEs

Visual Studio Code

The most popular free code editor among developers, VS Code offers:

  • IntelliSense: Smart code completion
  • Integrated Terminal: Run commands without leaving the editor
  • Extension Marketplace: Thousands of plugins to enhance functionality
  • Git Integration: Built-in version control

Pro tip: Install these essential extensions:

  • Prettier (code formatting)
  • Live Server (local development server)
  • GitLens (enhanced Git capabilities)
  • Bracket Pair Colorizer (easier code navigation)

WebStorm (by JetBrains)

A powerful IDE specifically designed for JavaScript development:

  • Advanced debugging capabilities
  • Intelligent code completion
  • Built-in tools for popular frameworks
  • Refactoring support

Version Control

Git and GitHub

Version control is crucial for any developer:

  • Track changes in your code over time
  • Collaborate with other developers
  • Backup your projects in the cloud
  • Showcase your work to potential employers

Essential Git commands to learn:

git init        # Initialize a repository
git add .       # Stage changes
git commit -m   # Commit changes
git push        # Upload to remote repository
git pull        # Download latest changes

Browser Developer Tools

Chrome DevTools

Built into Chrome browser, these tools are essential for web development:

  • Elements Panel: Inspect and modify HTML/CSS
  • Console: Debug JavaScript and view errors
  • Network Tab: Monitor API requests and responses
  • Performance Tab: Analyze site performance

Pro tip: Learn keyboard shortcuts like F12 to open DevTools quickly.

API Development and Testing

Postman

Essential for working with APIs:

  • Test API endpoints without writing code
  • Organize requests into collections
  • Automate testing with scripts
  • Generate documentation automatically

Insomnia

A lightweight alternative to Postman:

  • Clean, minimal interface
  • GraphQL support
  • Environment variables
  • Code generation for multiple languages

Command Line Tools

Terminal/Command Prompt

Master these essential commands:

ls/dir          # List files and directories
cd              # Change directory
mkdir           # Create directory
rm/del          # Delete files
cp/copy         # Copy files
mv/move         # Move/rename files

Package Managers

  • npm (Node.js): Manage JavaScript packages
  • pip (Python): Install Python libraries
  • Maven/Gradle (Java): Build tools and dependency management

Design and Prototyping

Figma

For UI/UX design and prototyping:

  • Collaborative design platform
  • Component libraries
  • Prototyping capabilities
  • Developer handoff tools

Canva

Quick graphics and social media content:

  • Templates for various formats
  • Easy-to-use interface
  • Brand kit for consistency

Database Tools

MySQL Workbench

For database design and management:

  • Visual database design
  • Query editor
  • Database administration
  • Data modeling

MongoDB Compass

For NoSQL database management: