Introduction to JavaScript: A Beginner’s Guide with Examples

Introduction to JavaScript
1. What is JavaScript?
 JavaScript (commonly abbreviated as JS) is a high-level, interpreted
programming language that conforms to the ECMAScript specification.
 It is a versatile, lightweight, and multi-paradigm language used primarily for
adding interactivity to web pages.
 JavaScript is a client-side language (executed in the browser) but can also
be used on the server-side with environments like Node.js.

2. History and Evolution
 Developed by Brendan Eich in 1995 during his time at Netscape
Communications.
 Originally called Mocha, then renamed LiveScript, and finally JavaScript.
 Standardized as ECMAScript (ES) by ECMA International, ensuring
compatibility across different environments.
 Modern versions (ES6 and beyond) have introduced powerful features such
as modules, classes, and async programming.



3. Why Use JavaScript?
 Interactivity: Enables dynamic content like form validation, animations, and
user interactions.
 Ubiquity: Supported by all modern web browsers, making it essential for
web development.
 Versatility: Works on the front-end (web browsers) and back-end (with
Node.js), allowing developers to use a single language across the stack.



4. Key Characteristics
 Lightweight and Fast: Designed for quick execution with minimal overhead.