In-the-know coworkers or tech forums may have mentioned the term full stack developer to you, especially if you’ve been considering a career in coding. However, what exactly is a full-stack developer, and what is the job description of such a person?
There is no better way to put it: those full-stack developers are the Swiss army knives of the development world. These savvy professionals can transition seamlessly from one development environment to another as they are masters of multiple programming languages and adept at switching between them. A boundless sense of curiosity drives full-stack developers – it is not enough to know that something works; they need to understand how and why it works behind each feature and function.
Are you able to relate to this? If this is the case, keep reading. This article aims to comprehensively overview what full-stack developers are, what they do, and where they fit within the development sector.
How does a Full Stack Engineer work?
Full-stack developers work on an application’s front and back ends in web development. In the front end of a website, everything the client can see and interact with is contained within this area. In contrast, a backend refers to all the servers, databases, and other internal components that make the application run; in most cases, the end-user does not have direct contact with the backend.
Thinking of a restaurant as a metaphor is an excellent way to put the whole Stack into perspective. Located at the restaurant’s front end, visitors can enjoy well-decorated, comfortable seating areas while eating. “Back end” appears to be the kitchen and pantry, which are typically hidden away from the view of the customer at the back of the restaurant. In the kitchen (the server), chefs (developers) prepare meals (information) by gathering permanently stored materials from the pantry (the database). Read More
A frontend platform is typically built with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript; however, prepackaged code libraries or content management systems also use. Unlike frontend developers, backend developers refine the software code that communicates with servers, databases, or other proprietary software.
Compared with the backend developers surveyed, 55.2 per cent identified themselves as backend developers, 37.1% identified themselves as frontend developers, and 19.2 per cent claimed to be mobile developers. The modern full-stack developer is an experienced generalist who can build a minimal viable product – an application with enough functionality to please early customers and spark feedback for further development—professionals specializing in complete stack development handle front- and backend development tasks. This versatility has become increasingly vital with the growing use of AI and other sophisticated technologies in newer apps.
How Do Full Stack Developers Work?
You have several responsibilities as a full-stack developer for many tasks. Moreover, they must be able to create websites with robust internal architecture and provide clients with an interactive and intuitive user-friendly interface. It is necessary for a full-stack developer to have a good understanding of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript and to understand backend technologies and database structures as well. They ensure that technical concerns are adequately addressed at every level of the development stack throughout a product’s development.
Before turning prototypes into coded products, full-stack developers brainstorm platforms with graphic designers. They then craft databases and servers to support client-facing content, constantly evaluating how responsive an app is for users and troubleshooting issues as they arise. It is also essential for the best full-stack developers to keep abreast of current industry trends and emerging technologies. They should also be able to deploy new technologies to suit the needs of their employers.
Professional responsibilities include:
- Working with CSS, HTML, and JavaScript, along with CSS preprocessors, to build client-facing platforms
- The management of databases and servers is an important task.
- Developing code that uses across multiple platforms and languages
- Communicating with the specialized developers and graphic design team is essential to deliver the best product.
- Staying up-to-date with new technological developments that may be of use to the business
- Making a prototype of a minimal viable product for communication with the stakeholders of the company
Demand for Full Stack Developers?
To put it simply, yes.
Currently, “Full stack engineer” is ranked #8 on Linkedin’s list of emerging jobs for the Canadian job market. The demand for full-stack developers should come as no surprise; these professionals have extensive experience across various platforms. Undoubtedly, full-stack developers have the best position to interact with the backend, frontend, and design teams.
More than that, full-stack developers can also achieve success outside of the technology industry. Full-stack developers are most likely to work in the following sectors: computer software, information technology, the internet, financial services, and marketing. Modern companies rely on business logic and client-facing platforms to advertise their services, convert new clients, and automate daily operations.
How to Become a Full-Stack Developer?
A full stack developer’s role depends on their specific industry and job, but they must have the same core front and backend development skills.
Web Development
In frontend development, an interface is produced for end users. Frontend developers develop platforms that are visually pleasing and easy to use. Developing the front end of a website has become more complex as users interact with it on various devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and desktop computers. In today’s world, developers must ensure that their websites render correctly across multiple operating systems, browsers, and devices. Although frontend development requirements are constantly evolving, there are a few skills that all full-stack developers should master.
Among these are:
- HTML
- CSS
- JS (JavaScript)
- =DOM manipulator
Developing backend
Generally speaking, backend development refers to what goes on behind the scenes of a site or application – the underlying architecture behind which the product is built. A database consists of tables, a server, and other proprietary software that serves as an intermediary. A developer must have a good understanding of how to organize the logic of a system in such a way that the overarching program or website runs smoothly. It must be possible for other developers to maintain the codebase over time by integrating all frameworks and libraries.
Backend developers must possess comprehensive foundational skills to achieve this goal. Included should be the following:
- java java
- Programming in an object-oriented manner
- NoSQL and SQL
- Using Python:
How can I learn these skills most effectively?
Learning the skills necessary to become a full-stack developer can be done in many ways. Some companies may favour those with a certain level of education, but most are more concerned with whether or not you have the chops. Most full-stack developers have a bachelor’s degree in computer science, programming, or web development. In addition to the broad theoretical and practical knowledge, a college education can give you excellent industry contacts. 49.3 per cent of professional developers have a bachelor’s degree, according to Stack Overflow. A similar study found that 24.4 per cent of developers considered formal education “very important,” 26.4 per cent “fairly important,” and 23.7 per cent “somewhat important.”
It is also possible to be highly competitive without formal degrees if you have an impressive portfolio, solid references, and open-source experience. Although it is difficult to acquire all the necessary skills through self-directed training, it is still possible. The bottom line is that you can use low-cost online classes, books, and tutorials as a springboard to leap into an entire stack developer career if you are disciplined and passionate. Consider coding boot camps if you need more time or resources to pursue a conventional four-year degree. Coding boot camps provide you with the practical industry knowledge and skills needed to land that first entry-level job. You’ll develop portfolio-worthy projects during boot camps and build relationships with industry professionals. However, you should think carefully before committing to an educational route without considering your needs and situation first.
Here are some key questions you should ask yourself before enrolling in your first course:
- What is the learning time commitment?
- Do I need to work part-time or full-time?
- Can I learn better in a virtual or an in-person environment?
- What is a reasonable price range for my education?
- How soon should I apply for complete stack development jobs that are available?
Both learning routes can provide you with the experience you need to thrive professionally, but which is the right one for you? In the end, it is up to you to make the decision.