Learning Javascript vs. jQuery

Question

I got the Wrox.Beginning.JavaScript.3rd.Edition and wanted to start learning it from scratch, then my boss came along and said that why bother, learn jQuery. Can I understand jQ

Answer 1

jQuery is javascript. I think you're on the right path. Learn javascript well and you'll be able to make better use of jQuery.

Answer 2

jQuery removes the need for many bad Javascript habits. However, you will frequently need to know more than just jQuery to get non-trivial work done.

You'll need to learn both, but try to pick up habits based on jQuery.

Answer 3

if all your manager is asking from you is to show and hide some elements, or fade in and out a couple of images, or request some data via ajax and display it then learning jquery and its api is perhaps all that you need.

but if you (or your manager) are concerned about performance, maintainability, code reuse and generally understanding what the *ell is going on 'back there' then learning the language itself is a safe bet.

I would suggest grabbing a copy of JavaScript: The Definitive Guide, which will give you a general understanding of what it is and how to use it, and much more. While you are at it, I also suggest John Resig's Pro Javascript techniques. This guy really knows his javascript inside-out (works for mozilla, author of jQuery, amongst others).

As for jQuery, you don't really need to buy a book. Just browse through the API and have a look at its source code. Perhaps you won't understand much, but there are some cool stuff going on that will make you think.

Answer 4

It is entirely possible to learn jQuery without learning every bit of javascript first. However, to be productive and and extend the functionality of plugins etc you will need to know javascript.

I would suggest that you do a bit of both. Continue learning Javascript but when you want to implement functionality make use of the jQuery library.

Answer 5

If you already have an understanding of C#, you'll have a head start learning Javascript and it shouldn't be too hard to pick up. I'd stick with that Javascript book though, since you need to know Javascript to use jQuery. Once you are comfortable with Javascript, move on to learning jQuery. The jQuery docs are VERY helpful and can answer almost any question you have.

Good luck with learning it, it'll be worth it.

jQuery Docs

Answer 6

Libraries will alwas contain nonessential complexity, but they can save some headaches if they're not too bloated or already present on the end users' systems. Best use would be to learn javascript while using jquery, and then slowly remove the crutch of using jquery. While it's powerful, it does add significant overhead, nonessential complexity, and potential opportunities for abuse, just like flash. There are no silver bullets.