The job title of app developers seems to be getting more and more in demand, considering the modern society we live in where apps are generally considered to be professional and preferred. An app developer refers to an individual who is able to design or build mobile applications for either iOS, Android or other platforms.
But consulting a developer in order to get your idea turned into an app can be pretty pricey. On an average, the time taken for an app to be completely built and delivered can take between 7 to 9 months. It can also cost you a nice $250,000. This estimate is sometimes beyond the range of smaller companies or individuals.
The whole process of learning how to build apps may sound pretty frightening but with time, patience and consistency, you can achieve this feed.
In this post, we will be dealing on how to become an app developer for those who are just starting or want to delve further into the field.
1) Understand what you want to specialize in
The first step towards becoming an app developer is to choose a platform. There are plenty of platforms, such as iOS, Android, BlackBerry, etc. But it is clear to see that iOS and Android are dominating the game.
Therefore, it is best that you start off with either iOS or Android. One is different from the other so choose which one you want to specialize in. It is not suggestable that you try to master both or all. First, try to specialize in one and then you can broaden your skills and add another one.
2) Software development knowledge
To become an app developer, you have to possess software development skills and knowledge. It is not necessary for you to go to school or earn a degree in computer science or anything similar to it. The internet is a very useful place to opt for learning anything.
As a beginner, you can take up introductory courses on computer science in sites like edX or you can also opt for Team Treehouse.
3) Coding skills
After you are done choosing which app platform you wish to learn, the next step is to learn its core basics.
If you have chosen iOS, then you will need to either learn Swift or Objective-C. If you want to learn to develop apps in order to create your own products, then you should go for Swift. But if you want to work as an app developer for a company, then you should go for Objective-C.
If you have chosen Android, then you have to learn either Java or Kotlin. If you have no idea what it is about, then you have to go for introductory courses.
4) App builders
If the cost of hiring an app developer is out of your budget but you do not have the time to learn the whole process of app development, then you can go for app builders.
If you find the right app builder, you do not need to possess any coding skills. You also have access to hundreds of templates for your use.
5) Practice
Once you finally have a decent hang of coding, then you have reached the beginning of building your app. Keep on writing and practicing clean code and documentation. Best results only come if you are determined to learn and continuously put in efforts.
6) Move to other platforms
Once you have one app platform down, you can move or shift to another platform. Each platform has its own features and you will have to modify your apps accordingly.
Since almost everyone has a smartphone with apps installed, it is safe to say that learning app development is a very beneficial skill. Once again, take your time and get a good grasp of the very basics of development. The route to learning app development varies depending on what you want or need. Understand what you require and then slowly proceed ahead.
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