Getting Started with Vanilla JavaScript: Setting Up Your Development Environment

This simple guide will walk you through how to set up your development environment, to make working with JavaScript smooth and interactive. The setup will use a simple folder structure with an HTML document and an external JavaScript file. This way, you can code along with the guide, write JavaScript in a separate file, and see your output in the browser console. This setup is pretty much how things work in the real world of web development. Let's dive in!

Why Use an External JavaScript File?

Using an external JavaScript file has several advantages:

• Organization: It keeps your HTML and JavaScript code separate, making your files cleaner and easier to read.
• Reusability: You can use the same JavaScript file across multiple HTML files.
• Maintainability: It's easier to update your JavaScript code without modifying your HTML file.
• Collaboration: Working with others becomes easier as different team members can work on HTML and JavaScript files simultaneously.

Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up Your Development Environment

1. Create a New Folder for Your Project

Start by creating a new folder on your computer where you'll store your project files. Name the folder something like js-tutorial.

2. Create a New HTML File

Inside your project folder (js-tutorial), create a new HTML file. Name it something like index.html.

3. Create a New JavaScript File

Still inside your project folder (js-tutorial), create a new JavaScript file. Name it something like script.js.

4. Set Up the Basic HTML Structure

Open your index.html file in a text editor and set up a basic HTML structure. Link the external JavaScript file using the