Chapter 1. Programming, JavaScript, and JS Bin

Get Programming with JavaScript is a practical introduction to programming. Through hands-on code samples coupled with carefully paced explanations, supporting video tutorials, and a variety of examples, this book will help you build knowledge and skills and get you on your way to coding expertise.

This chapter sets the scene with a brief overview of programming and programming with JavaScript and then an introduction to JS Bin, the online programming sandbox you’ll be making full use of while you learn. Finally, you’ll meet The Crypt, our ongoing context for the concepts covered in the book.

1.1. Programming

Programming is about giving the computer a series of instructions in a format it understands. Programs are everywhere, running Mars rovers, the Large Hadron Collider, engine management systems, financial markets, drones, phones, tablets, TVs, and medical equipment. The power and versatility of programs are astonishing. Programs can be a few lines long or millions of lines long, with complex solutions built from simple building blocks.

1.2. JavaScript

1.3. Learning by doing and thinking

1.4. JS Bin

1.5. The Crypt—our running example

1.6. Further examples and practice

1.7. Browser support

1.8. Summary