JavaScript
JavaScript is the standard programming language of the web—the only language that runs natively in all modern browsers. Whenever you click a button and something updates on the page without a full refresh, JavaScript is usually at work. It adds interactivity, handles user input, talks to servers for fresh data, and can animate or customise the interface. Beyond the browser, JavaScript also runs on servers (with platforms like Node.js), enabling a single language to power both the front-end and back-end of an application. For non-technical readers, think of JavaScript as the "logic" that brings a website to life. It coordinates data coming from your systems with what users see and do, in real time. A huge ecosystem of libraries—charts, maps, date pickers, testing tools—means problems are often solved with well-maintained, reusable building blocks, speeding up delivery and improving quality.
Official WebsiteWhen to use JavaScript
Use JavaScript whenever a website or web app needs dynamic behaviour: dashboards that refresh live, forms that respond instantly, or rich interfaces that feel like desktop software. It's also appropriate for server-side utilities, small services, and automation tasks when teams prefer one language across the stack.
Why choose JavaScript?
JavaScript is near-universal: every browser runs it, the talent pool is vast, and the tooling is mature. Choosing it keeps options open—integrating with almost any service or framework. It's also easy to pair with TypeScript for safer, large-scale development without losing JavaScript's flexibility.