A full stack developer is a versatile professional who possesses a comprehensive understanding of both front end and back end development. They are capable of working on all aspects of web application development, from designing user interfaces to managing databases.

What exactly is the front end?

Every time we open a website, it has several UI components, and once we click on a particular icon, say 'sign-in', we get navigated to the sign-in or log-in page.

All these icons facilitate navigation and utility. These are collectively called the front end.

Thus, the front end is the visible part of the website or web application that is responsible for the user experience.

So we can say that front end development, also known as 'client-side' development, deals with the development of all those parts of the website that a user sees and interacts with, for example, presentation, design, and functionality.

What exactly is the back end?

The back end, also known as the 'server-side' development of the application, comprises everything like the servers, operating systems, and APIs that ensure the proper functioning of the website, leading to a smooth customer experience. It is basically the software that accesses data for us.

So every time the user makes a request, it queries the database, retrieves the data from there, and presents it to the user.

In the 'sign-in' example used previously, an authentication server is responsible for verifying user credentials, such as usernames and passwords, to grant access to authorised users, while a user database securely stores user information, including hashed passwords and additional data, and session management creates and manages user sessions upon successful authentication, enabling access to restricted areas without the need for repeated logins, all while implementing security measures like password hashing, encryption, HTTPS, and protection against common security vulnerabilities to safeguard user accounts.

Lastly, it ensures data consistency.

Let's explore the role and responsibilities of a full stack developer.

Role and Responsibilities of a full stack developer

• Designing and Developing Complete Web Applications: Full stack developers are responsible for creating web applications from start to finish. They handle both client-side (front end) and server-side (back end) development tasks.
• Managing Databases: Full stack developers work with databases to store and retrieve data, ensuring efficient data management and organisation.
• Ensuring Seamless User Experiences: Full stack developers create intuitive and user-friendly interfaces, optimise website performance, and implement responsive design principles.

Becoming a proficient full stack developer requires a diverse set of skills encompassing front end, back end, and database management.

Let's explore the key skills required in each area.

Front End Skills

• HTML: It stands for Hypertext Markup Language. It creates and organises web content so that it can be displayed by a browser. It defines the structure of the websites and formats the web pages. It also defines textual documentation. It is responsible for what is being shown on the website.
• CSS: It is an acronym for Cascading Style Sheets. It is used along with HTML and defines the style of a website's content. It allows us to alter and style different web components, be they size, fonts, spacing, etc. It makes the content on the website look more decorative.
• JavaScript: It is a powerful client-side scripting language that is mainly used to enhance the user's interaction with the web page. It is a programming language that is used for more interactive elements such as drop-down menus, modal windows, and contact forms. It brings the web application to life.
• Frameworks like React or Angular: Let's have a look at some of the front end frameworks and libraries. Most of these are Javascript frameworks and libraries. In this, we have React, Angular, jQuery, and Bootstrap. All of these help develop the front end of the application.

However, it is not necessary for us to know everything to create a website. One of them will be sufficient.

The usage of React is on the rise, and most developers prefer using it.

Back End Skills

Server-Side Programming Languages

• Python: Python is a versatile and widely adopted programming language in the server-side domain. Its simplicity and readability make it ideal for handling server-side logic and data processing. Python frameworks like Django and Flask provide powerful tools for building scalable and efficient web applications.
• Java: Java is a robust and highly popular programming language known for its platform independence. It excels in server-side development, offering strong support for concurrent programming, database connectivity, and enterprise-level application development. Java frameworks like Spring and Java EE provide extensive libraries and tools for building robust server-side applications.
• Node.js: Node.js is a runtime environment built on Chrome's V8 JavaScript engine. It allows JavaScript to run on the server side, enabling developers to use a unified language across both client-side and server-side development. Node.js provides high-performance and non-blocking I/O capabilities, making it well-suited for real-time applications and scalable server-side solutions

Databases

Understanding database management and query languages like SQL is essential for full stack developers.

Databases are crucial for storing and retrieving data in web applications, and SQL allows developers to interact with databases effectively.

Knowledge of popular database systems like MySQL or MongoDB enables developers to design efficient data models, optimise queries, and ensure data integrity, resulting in robust and scalable applications.

Artificial Intelligence, or AI, is the imitation of human intelligence by machines, particularly computer systems.

The rapid evolution of AI has impacted all aspects of technology, and web development is no exception. From coding to deployment, it is omnipresent and has been handling tasks that are otherwise manual and thus time-consuming.

AI-based development has numerous benefits, including fast development and enhanced product quality. As a result, the technical tasks can now be left to AI, allowing developers to focus more on strategically important parts of development.

However, if not properly interpreted, analysed, and acted upon, advancements in AI can indeed present challenges to full stack developers.

Here are a few ways in which AI can impact their roles but, at the same time, give rise to new roles involving human intelligence, thus future-proofing their careers.

Automation of Development Tasks

AI can automate various aspects of software development, such as code generation, debugging, and testing.

While this can increase productivity and efficiency, it may also reduce the need for certain manual coding tasks traditionally performed by full-stack developers.

This means developers may need to adapt their skill sets to focus on higher-level tasks that require human creativity and problem-solving.

Specialisation and Niche Expertise

AI technologies are becoming more specialised and capable in specific domains.

As a result, full stack developers may need to acquire additional expertise in AI-related technologies to stay competitive.

It includes understanding machine learning algorithms, natural language processing, computer vision, and working with AI frameworks and libraries.

Integration of AI Components

Full stack developers may be required to integrate AI components or machine learning models into their applications.

This entails understanding how to work with AI APIs, deploying models in production environments, handling data preparation, and understanding model outputs.

Familiarity with AI concepts and practises is crucial for effectively incorporating AI into software solutions.

Ethical and Responsible AI Development

With the growing adoption of AI, concerns around ethical considerations and responsible AI development practises have emerged.

Full stack developers should be mindful of the potential biases, privacy issues, and ethical implications associated with AI applications.

They may need to understand guidelines and best practises for developing fair, transparent, and accountable AI systems.

In summary, AI advancements can impact the demand for certain development skills and the overall job market. As AI technologies evolve, some tasks may become automated, potentially altering the nature of full stack development roles. Developers should be proactive in keeping up with emerging trends, learning new technologies, and staying adaptable to the changing demands of the job market.

While advancements in AI offer numerous opportunities for full stack developers, they also present challenges. Developers must embrace lifelong learning, acquire AI-related skills, and stay updated with industry trends to leverage AI effectively and remain valuable in an evolving technological landscape.

Developing robust full stack skills requires dedication, continuous learning, and practical experience.

Here are some tips to help you enhance your capabilities as a full stack developer.

Continuous Learning

• Stay updated with the latest technologies, frameworks, and best practises in both front end and back end development.
• Follow blogs, online communities, and tutorials where developers can access valuable information and stay connected with the developer community.

Project-Based Learning

Work on real-world projects to gain hands-on experience and showcase your abilities. Focus on developing projects that cover both front end and back end aspects.

Specialise, but Remain Versatile

• Focus on a Specific Technology Stack: Specialise in a particular technology stack or domain, as it allows aspiring developers to dive deeper into specific areas and become experts.
• Maintain a Broad Understanding: Have a broad understanding of various technologies, even when specialising in one area. This helps developers adapt to changing industry demands and collaborate effectively with other team members.

Take Full Stack Developer Courses

Exploring the world of full stack development might seem like a labyrinth to a beginner.

However, getting yourself enrolled with a reputed institute gives you instant access to a tried and tested roadmap to take you from zero to a hero level.

With NxtWave, you can learn directly from the alumni of IITs and professionals from top MNCs such as Microsoft and Amazon, work on real-time industry projects, and get doubt clarification from 9 AM - 9 PM everyday. Regardless of your educational background, you can embark upon a high-paying developing job within eight months of the commencement of the Full Stack Development course.

More than 1500 companies, from fast-growing startups to Fortune 500 giants such as Google, Amazon, Deloitte, Bosch, and Jio, have hired NxtWave learners.

Get Yourself a Mentor

Training under a mentor, being in touch with them throughout your journey, or regularly updating them about your progress lets you stay on track. Also, you can get some important tips on how to ace this journey from someone who has once been in your shoes and can clearly see things from the perspective of a beginner trainee.

With NxtWave, you get access to alumni of top IITs who have worked with top MNCs and built world-class products. With them by your side, you can never get off track and will always feel motivated to accomplish your targets.

Build Strong Interpersonal Skills

As an aspiring full stack developer, of course, you need to know programming languages and understand complex algorithms, but you also need to communicate effectively and collaborate with all the stakeholders of a particular project.

It requires developing strong interpersonal skills like communication, problem-solving, decision-making, attention to detail, and active listening, which would help you in multiple scenarios on the professional front, like collaboration, strategising and cracking interviews. Ultimately, 'what to do' matters, but 'how to do it' also can't be underestimated.

With the NxtWave Intensive 2.0 program, you won't just get a firm grasp on the technical skills; you will also be trained on soft skills that will help you ace interviews and resume preparation that will create an excellent first impression on the recruiter and enhance your candidature.

Becoming a proficient full stack developer requires effort, patience, and dedication.

Let's explore some factors that influence the difficulty level of this journey.

Learning Curve

• Proficiency in Multiple Technologies and Frameworks: Mastering both front end and back end technologies and frameworks can be challenging at times, as each area has its own complexities.
• Continuously Evolving Landscape: There’s a need to stay updated with evolving technologies, frameworks, and industry trends, which adds to the learning curve.

Time Commitment

• Previous Experience: Previous experience in software development or related fields can impact the learning process and the time required to become a full stack developer.
• Dedicated Learning Time: The time commitment varies based on the amount of dedicated learning time and practise put into acquiring the necessary skills.

Personal Motivation

• Dedication and Perseverance: Dedication, motivation, and perseverance in overcoming challenges that may arise during the learning process play a crucial role.
• Passion for Learning: It is advised that full stack developers have a genuine passion for learning and exploring new technologies, as it will fuel their progress and keep them motivated.

In this blog, we have gone through the definition and roles and responsibilities of a full stack developer, how it is a combination of front end and back end developers, and the skills required to crack a well-paying job as a full stack developer. Finally, we have also covered some tips to cope-up with the advancements in AI, and thrive in this ever-evolving and highly demanding industry.

It's quite normal to get overwhelmed when looking at the diverse range of skills that need to be acquired to get into this profession. However, we should never forget that every expert was once a beginner. The only way out is from within. A successful career can be made out of it with patience, perseverance, commitment, the right resources, and guidance.

With trainers from top IITs and MNCs, real-time industry projects, and dedicated placement support, NxtWave has got your back. Join irrespective of your academic background or prior coding knowledge, and finish the programme online within 8 months. Receive industry-ready certification and get hired by top players in the industry like Google, Amazon, and Deloitte.

1. Can I become a Full Stack Developer without any experience?

Yes. Professional experience isn't mandatory to land a job as a full stack developer. Having said that, taking on industry-relevant projects enhances the credibility of your resume.

With NxtWave, you get hands-on learning experience by doing real-time projects and getting mentored by seasoned industry professionals, which prepares you to take on any kind of challenge on the professional front.

2. Can a non-IT student become a web developer?

Yes. Anyone with the necessary skill sets, regardless of their educational background, can make a successful career out of it because these skills are what recruiters look for.

NxtWave has a proven track record of getting all its students from diverse academic backgrounds placed in top-level MNCs as entry-level developers.

Check out the inspiring success stories of our learners here

3. Is full stack developer a good career?

Yes. Owing to their versatility and ability to reduce operational costs, they are highly preferred over front end and back end specialists for web development and thus have a rising demand in the industry.

Full stack developers can either work as in-house web developers or for software agencies that provide web development services to companies.

4. Which full stack is most in demand?

Though there are several factors influencing the demand for stacks, like market trends, industry needs, and regional preferences, the MERN stack can be generally seen as the most sought-after. With Angular replacing React, it has several advantages over MEAN in aspects of data binding, performance, and resolving dependencies.

However, it is important to keep in mind that the industry is dynamic and technology preferences can change over time. Hence, it is always advised to stay updated with the latest trends and assess the demand in your specific niche.

5. What is a full-stack developer's salary?

Though the salary varies depending upon your employer, years of experience, location, and skill sets, on average, an entry-level full-stack developer can earn around INR 5.5 LPA.