Ruby on Rails is the perfect framework for someone who wants to build web applications. It’s based on Ruby, which is an object-oriented programming language, and uses a metaphor called Convention Over Configuration.
We’ll be walking through what you need to start learning Ruby and how Rails works.
What Is Ruby Used For?
Ruby on Rails developer have used Rails to develop large-scale web applications such as Twitter and Wikipedia to power the front-end of the sites. It’s also used for writing command-line utilities, games, and desktop applications.
Ruby comes with a built-in web server so you can develop web applications just like other languages except with Ruby.
Reasons to learn
1. Ruby is easy to understand
The syntax of Ruby is very easy to learn and read. The syntax can change at any time, but it’s usually not as difficult as other languages such as C/C++.
Ruby is an object-oriented programming language, so objects are used instead of functions. Instead of having a bunch of different variables that need to be passed around, you can just make your objects and use them right away.
2. Ruby on Rails is full-stack
Ruby on Rails is made up of both front-end and back-end components. This makes it easier to build a full application without having to switch between frameworks. You can build a full app without having to be an expert in the front and back end at the same time.
For example, if you want to create a Google clone (front-end + back-end), you could do that using Ruby and Rails.
3. Rails has a strong developer community
Rails have a large community of contributors. If you’re new to programming, it’s a good idea to learn with others.
In fact, Ruby on Rails is used by thousands of apps in the market, and its popularity isn’t decreasing.
Give it a try and see if you like it. If not, don’t worry because this should be a fun project for you to work on in your spare time.
4. Rails is beginner-friendly
Ruby includes features that make it extremely flexible as a programming language. For example, if you are working in JavaScript, you must finish lines with a semi-colon. This isn’t the case in Rails which is more forgiving. In addition, Rails is built to ensure any features are added in a certain way, thereby helping beginners to learn best practices.
5. Rails is easy to set-up
Rails can be set up in just a few minutes.
Let’s give you an example: If you are using a Mac, Ruby on Rails will install the software for you as well as configure it, so your web development server is ready to go. If you are using Windows, it will download everything needed for you and configure the database for you. Lastly, if you are using a Linux computer, it will also install the software and configure the database for you as well.
Ruby on Rails is easy to learn and much easier to master. It’s designed to be user-friendly and ready to go out of the box. So if you like building websites and applications, why not give it a try?