I want to get into JavaScript programming but I’m feeling overwhelmed by all the different learning paths available. Previously, I managed to study up to DOM manipulation but had to take a break because of my university exams. Now I’m ready to get back into coding but I’m not sure about the most effective way to continue.
Should I focus on following step-by-step video tutorials or would it be better to dive straight into official documentation? I’m also wondering if there are any specific topics I should prioritize when restarting my learning process. Any advice on structuring my study plan would be really helpful since there are so many resources online and I don’t want to waste time jumping between different approaches.
Skip the basic tutorials since you’ve got DOM manipulation experience. Build small projects instead - that’s what worked for me after a similar break. I made simple interactive pages and concepts came back way faster than rewatching fundamentals ever could. Start by recreating something you built before, then add new features. Keeps you interested while bringing back what you already know. For new stuff, MDN docs are great once you’ve got the foundation down. Just code consistently - even 30 minutes daily works. Your previous knowledge will click back into place once you start coding again, so don’t stress about starting over.
Since you’ve got DOM manipulation down, I’d go with a hybrid approach instead of picking just one method. When I came back to JavaScript after a long break, mixing official docs with hands-on practice worked best for me. MDN becomes way easier to digest when you’re actually using the concepts instead of just reading. What helped me was a simple daily routine: 20 minutes reviewing core concepts I’d forgotten, then immediately applying them in small coding exercises. This stops you from getting overwhelmed trying to absorb everything at once. Focus on nailing your foundation first - variables, functions, event handling - before jumping into async programming or frameworks. Consistency beats intensity every time, especially when you’re getting back into the coding groove.
totally feel u! freeCodeCamp is a gud starting point, just dive in and code. don’t stress about finding the perfect way, just keep at it and it’ll all make sense soon. u can do it!