How to Become a HTML Developer
How to Become an HTML Developer
Looking for a career that combines creativity and technology? Then why not become an HTML developer?
Developers with an in-depth understanding of HTML5 are in demand, so jobs are plentiful and pay is competitive. Here’s a bite-sized guide to this rewarding career.
What is HTML?
HTML stands for HyperText Markup Language, and HTML5 is the latest version. Together with JavaScript and CSS, HTML is one of the three components you need to create web pages.
What Qualifications Do You Need to Become an HTML Developer?
Some employers prefer their web developers to have a bachelor’s degree in computer science, data science, or a related subject. However, knowledge, technical skills, and experience are generally thought to be more important. While it’s perfectly possible to teach yourself the skills you’ll need, employers will want to see proof. There are two main ways to provide this.
Take short courses
Universities and private providers offer a number of web development courses on popular programming languages, Javascript, and industry-specific topics. These are usually affordable and can sometimes be studied online.
Undertaking one of these courses will give you an overview of the primary programming languages, the process of back-end development, and an understanding of web design.
There’s a variety of options out there for both beginners and full-time programmer professionals. Through guided tutorials, classes, and seminars, you can learn the fundamentals of how to write code and launch your HTML career.
Build your own websites
Some computer science degrees include placements, but there are plenty of other ways to gain hands-on experience. You could:
We recommend creating a digital portfolio where you can keep a record of the web development projects you’re involved with. As you complete each project, add images and a description to your portfolio and try to include testimonials from happy clients.#
The more evidence of your web development skills you can showcase, the more trustworthy you are to an employer. Additionally, it may be worth gaining a knowledge of digital marketing, SEO, and the realms of social media. Getting clued up on these areas could help you land a full-time web developer role in the long run.
What Skills Do HTML Developers Need?
Before you start looking at web developer jobs, you need to know whether you have the right skill-set. Learning java is a start.
However, you also need to understand computer science fundamentals, how to design a functional user experience using frameworks, and a range of other talents.
If you want to become an HTML expert, you’ll need to master the essentials of front-end development first. Here are the main skills and personal qualities you’ll need:
Knowledge of content management systems like WordPress
An understanding of User Experience (UX) Design and User Interface (UI) design
The ability to test and debug websites
Fast thinking to react to situations
An ability to explain technical matters
Managing the client-side or server-side of development
Creativity
Excellent problem-solving abilities
Fluency in some of the leading coding languages
An understanding of fonts and different styles
Implementing version control
Specialist HTML skills include: The ability to build web pages from scratch purely using HTML, CSS, and Javascript, knowledge of browser compatibility issues, familiarity with variations between HTML5 and previous versions, understanding how to build web applications , the ability to create bespoke animations and visuals
What Do HTML Developers Do?
Web developers transform a website designer’s creative vision into a fully functioning website. There are two main types of developers:
Front end developers
Using a combination of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, front-end web developers build the parts of a website that users see on their screens. As well as controlling the appearance of images, videos, and content, they create interactive elements such as drop-down menus, call to action buttons and search boxes.
Back end developers
These developers handle the parts of a website that users don’t see. With the help of programming languages like Ruby, Python, PHP, ASP, and SQL, they build and maintain servers, applications, and databases. They also ensure that websites are working reliably and efficiently.
HTML developers are front-end developers with a particularly in-depth understanding of the latest HTML specification. Some advanced HTML developers also understand the essentials of back-end technology.
How Much do HTML Developers Earn?
According to the National Careers Service, developers can earn between £20,000 and £50,000 a year. This can vary depending on experience and specific skills. You can also work as a freelancer, which can affect your earning potential.
Popular Career Pathways for HTML Developers
Most HTML developers start their career in a junior front-end web development role. While you could apply to work directly for a company or organisation, agency work is also worth considering, especially if you’re keen to work on a wide variety of projects. If you’d rather work for a company, don’t rule out smaller ones, as they’re more likely to offer you the chance to take creative control.
Once you’ve spent a few years in a full-time junior role, you’ll be able to move into an intermediate position and work on projects more independently. You can then opt to specialise and build a reputation as an HTML expert or upskill and move into something related like app development.
Gaining technical know-how will mean that you can go for a variety of roles, including a software developer, full-stack developer, front-end web developer, programmer, coder, and more. When you have gained the initial coding skills, you may find that you’ll benefit from looking into a wide variety of roles.
Think you’ve got what it takes to become an HTML developer? Sign up and start building the skill set you’ll need!