If you’re just getting started with JavaScript, one of the most confusing parts is figuring out how to set up your development environment. The great news is that JavaScript doesn’t require a complex setup — but having the right tools will make your coding smoother, faster, and more enjoyable.

This step-by-step guide walks you through everything you need: installing Node.js, choosing a code editor, setting up a project folder, and running your first JavaScript program.

1. Install a Code Editor (VS Code Recommended)

A code editor is where you’ll write your JavaScript code.

Why Visual Studio Code?

• Free and lightweight

• Has thousands of extensions

• Built-in terminal

• Great for beginners and pros

How to Install VS Code

1. Visit the official site

2. Download the version for Windows, macOS, or Linux

3. Install it like a normal app

4. (Optional) Install useful extensions:

   • ESLint (code quality)

   • Prettier (auto formatting)

   • Live Server (for running websites locally)

2. Install Node.js (This Gives You npm Too)

Node.js lets you run JavaScript outside the browser, which is perfect for building tools, backend apps, and even running build commands.

Steps

1. Go to the official Node.js website

2. Download the LTS (Long Term Support) version

3. Run the installer and complete the setup

4. Verify installation:

Open your terminal and type:

node -v
npm -v

If you get version numbers, you’re ready to go.

3. Create Your Project Folder

Your project needs its own directory.

Steps

• Create a folder anywhere on your computer, e.g.:

my-js-project

• Open the folder in VS Code
  (Right-click → Open with Code)

4. Initialize a JavaScript Project with npm

npm (Node Package Manager) helps you install packages and manage dependencies.

Open the VS Code terminal and run:

npm init -y

This creates a package.json file that defines your project.

5. Create Your First JavaScript File

Inside your project folder, create:

index.js

Add the following test code:

console.log("Hello JavaScript Environment!");

6. Run JavaScript in the Terminal

Use Node.js to execute your file:

node index.js

You should see:

Hello JavaScript Environment!

Congrats — your JS environment is working!

7. (Optional) Install Useful Developer Tools

ESLint

Helps you write clean, consistent code.

npm install eslint --save-dev
npx eslint --init

Prettier

Automatically formats your code beautifully.

npm install --save-dev prettier

Live Server (for Browser Projects)

For HTML/JS websites that refresh automatically.

Install from VS Code extensions: Live Server
Right-click index.html → Open with Live Server

8. (Optional) Use Git for Version Control

If you want to track your code changes (recommended!):

1. Install Git

2. Run inside your project:

git init
git add .
git commit -m "Initial commit"

You can even connect it to GitHub later.

9. Your JavaScript Environment Is Ready!

You now have everything needed to build:

• Web apps

• Node.js apps

• APIs

• Tools and scripts

• Browser-based projects

From here, you can start learning JavaScript fundamentals or jump into frameworks like React, Vue, or Node Express.

Final Thoughts

Setting up your JavaScript environment is the first milestone in your developer journey. With Node.js, VS Code, and npm ready, you’re fully equipped to write, run, and manage JavaScript projects efficiently.

If you'd like, I can also help you:

✅ Write a beginner-friendly JavaScript roadmap
✅ Set up a React or Node.js project
✅ Build sample projects to practice