Top 12 Entry Level Developer Skills to Put on Your Resume

In today's competitive job market, standing out as an entry-level developer requires more than just a degree; it necessitates a blend of technical prowess and soft skills that resonate with potential employers. This article delves into the top 12 skills that can elevate your resume, ensuring you not only attract attention but also demonstrate your readiness to tackle the challenges of the tech industry.

Entry Level Developer Skills

1. JavaScript
2. Python
3. HTML5
4. CSS3
5. React
6. Node.js
7. SQL
8. Git
9. Java
10. C#
11. Angular
12. REST APIs

1. JavaScript

JavaScript is a versatile, high-level programming language commonly used to create interactive effects within web browsers, enabling developers to build dynamic web applications.

Why It's Important

JavaScript is crucial for entry-level developers because it enables you to create dynamic and interactive web content, essential for modern web development. It's widely used across web applications, making it a fundamental skill for front-end, back-end, and full-stack development roles.

How to Improve JavaScript Skills

Improving your JavaScript skills as an entry-level developer involves practice, understanding core concepts, and staying updated with the latest trends. Here are concise tips with resources:

1. Master the Fundamentals: Before jumping into frameworks, ensure you have a solid understanding of JavaScript basics. Mozilla Developer Network (MDN) offers comprehensive guides and documentation.

2. Practice Coding: Regular practice is key. Solve problems on platforms like Codecademy and freeCodeCamp, which offer interactive JavaScript exercises.

3. Learn ES6 Features: ES6 (ECMAScript 2015) introduced many significant improvements to JavaScript. Get familiar with these features through ES6 Katas.

4. Understand Asynchronous JavaScript: Asynchronous programming is a critical part of JavaScript. Learn about callbacks, promises, and async/await through JavaScript.info.

5. Build Projects: Apply what you've learned by building projects. Start with simple applications and gradually increase complexity. GitHub is a great place to host and showcase your projects. Beginner JavaScript Projects can give you some ideas.

6. Read Books and Articles: Books like “Eloquent JavaScript” (available free online at Eloquent JavaScript) are excellent for deepening your knowledge.

7. Join a Community: Engage with other developers through forums like Stack Overflow or Reddit’s r/learnjavascript. Sharing knowledge and asking questions can significantly accelerate your learning.

8. Stay Updated: JavaScript evolves rapidly. Follow blogs, YouTube channels, and podcasts dedicated to JavaScript development to stay informed about the latest in the field.

Remember, consistency and a willingness to learn are your best assets as you improve your JavaScript skills.

How to Display JavaScript Skills on Your Resume

2. Python

Python is a high-level, interpreted programming language known for its simplicity, readability, and versatility, widely used for web development, data analysis, artificial intelligence, and more.

Why It's Important

Python is important for an Entry Level Developer because it's an easy-to-learn language that offers a vast ecosystem of libraries and frameworks, facilitating quick development of a wide range of applications, from web development to data analysis, enhancing job readiness across multiple fields.

How to Improve Python Skills

Improving your Python skills as an entry-level developer involves consistent practice, learning, and application of new concepts. Here are concise steps with resources:

1. Practice Coding Regularly: Engage in daily coding challenges on platforms like HackerRank or LeetCode.

2. Read Python Documentation: Familiarize yourself with Python's official documentation for a deeper understanding. Start with the Python Beginner's Guide.

3. Work on Projects: Apply your skills in real-world projects, which can be found on websites like GitHub.

4. Learn from Books: Read books such as “Automate the Boring Stuff with Python” by Al Sweigart, available here.

5. Take Online Courses: Platforms like Coursera and Udemy offer courses taught by industry professionals.

6. Join Python Communities: Participate in communities like r/learnpython or Python Discord for support and collaboration.

7. Follow Python Blogs and Podcasts: Resources like Real Python and the Talk Python To Me podcast keep you updated on the latest in Python.

8. Use Linters and Formatters: Tools like Flake8 and Black help improve code quality and readability.

9. Understand Python Libraries: Explore and understand popular libraries like NumPy, Pandas, and Django.

10. Write Readable Code: Follow the PEP 8 style guide for Python code to make your code more readable and maintainable.

By diversifying your learning sources and applying your knowledge through practice and projects, you'll progressively improve your Python skills.

How to Display Python Skills on Your Resume

3. HTML5

HTML5 is the latest version of the HTML standard, used for structuring and presenting content on the World Wide Web. It introduces new elements, attributes, and behaviors, as well as a larger set of technologies that allow the building of diverse and powerful websites and applications.

Why It's Important

HTML5 is crucial for an Entry Level Developer because it is the foundational language for creating and structuring content on the web, enabling the development of modern, interactive, and multimedia-rich websites and applications that are compatible across different browsers and devices.

How to Improve HTML5 Skills

Improving your HTML5 skills as an entry-level developer involves a combination of learning best practices, understanding semantic markup, and staying updated with the latest features. Here are concise steps to enhance your HTML5 proficiency:

1. Learn Semantic HTML: Focus on using HTML5 semantic elements correctly (<article>, <section>, <nav>, <header>, <footer>, etc.) to improve accessibility and SEO. MDN Web Docs on HTML elements reference is a great resource.

2. Master Forms and Input Types: Get familiar with the new HTML5 form elements and input types (<datalist>, <progress>, <output>, etc.) to create more interactive forms. The HTML5 Doctor offers excellent insights.

3. Understand New APIs and Features: HTML5 comes with a set of JavaScript APIs (like Geolocation, Web Storage, Offline, Canvas, etc.) that allow for more advanced functionality. W3Schools HTML5 API References provide easy-to-understand examples.

4. Responsive Design with Media Queries: Learn how to use CSS media queries alongside HTML5 to create responsive designs that work on any device. CSS-Tricks Guide to Media Queries is a helpful starting point.

5. Accessibility (A11y): Ensure your HTML5 code is accessible to all users, including those with disabilities. Incorporating ARIA roles and landmarks is crucial. WebAIM’s Introduction to ARIA offers a comprehensive overview.

6. Practice and Build Projects: Apply what you've learned by building small projects. Websites like CodePen and GitHub are great platforms to showcase your work.

7. Stay Updated: HTML5 is continuously evolving, so staying informed about the latest developments is key. Follow HTML5 Rocks and Smashing Magazine for updates and tutorials.

By focusing on these areas, you'll not only improve your HTML5 skills but also become a more competent and versatile web developer.

How to Display HTML5 Skills on Your Resume

4. CSS3

CSS3 is the third and latest version of Cascading Style Sheets, a style sheet language used for describing the look and formatting of a document written in HTML or XML. It introduces new capabilities like rounded corners, shadows, gradients, transitions, and animations, allowing for more sophisticated and responsive web designs.

Why It's Important

CSS3 enhances web presentation and design, allowing for more sophisticated and responsive user interfaces. It introduces new features like animations, transitions, and responsive layout capabilities, essential for creating modern, visually appealing, and mobile-friendly websites.

How to Improve CSS3 Skills

To improve your CSS3 skills as an entry-level developer, follow these concise steps:

1. Master the Basics: Ensure you have a solid understanding of CSS3 basics. W3Schools offers a comprehensive CSS Tutorial.

2. Stay Updated: CSS3 is always evolving. Follow the CSS Working Group to stay updated on the latest developments.

3. Practice: Build small projects or replicate designs using CSS3. CodePen is a great platform for experimenting and sharing, check out CodePen Challenges.

4. Learn Responsive Design: Understand how to create responsive web designs with CSS3. Mozilla Developer Network (MDN) has an excellent guide on Responsive Design.

5. Explore Advanced Features: Dive into advanced CSS3 features such as animations, transitions, and flexbox. CSS Tricks is a valuable resource, especially for Flexbox and CSS Animations.

6. Utilize Preprocessors: Learn a CSS preprocessor like Sass or LESS to write more maintainable and scalable code. Start with the official Sass Guide.

7. Join Communities: Engage with other developers through forums and communities such as Stack Overflow or the CSS-Tricks Forums to learn from real-world questions and solutions.

Consistent practice, staying updated with the latest standards, and actively participating in developer communities are key to improving your CSS3 skills.

How to Display CSS3 Skills on Your Resume

5. React

React is a JavaScript library for building user interfaces, particularly web applications with dynamic, interactive elements. It enables developers to create reusable UI components.

Why It's Important

React is important for an entry-level developer because it is a popular and efficient JavaScript library for building dynamic and interactive user interfaces, enabling the creation of reusable UI components, improving development speed, and enhancing user experience in web applications.

How to Improve React Skills

Improving your React skills, especially as an entry-level developer, involves understanding core concepts, practicing regularly, and keeping up with the latest trends and techniques. Here's a concise guide:

1. Master the Basics: Ensure you're comfortable with fundamental React concepts like JSX, components, props, state, and lifecycle methods. The React official documentation is an excellent place to start.

2. Build Projects: Apply what you've learned by building small projects. This could range from a to-do list to more complex applications. Check out Beginner React Projects for ideas.

3. Learn Hooks: Hooks are a significant addition to React that let you use state and other React features without writing a class. Familiarize yourself with useState, useEffect, and custom hooks. The Intro to Hooks guide is a great resource.

4. Understand State Management: For larger applications, managing state can get complicated. Explore libraries like Redux or Context API. Start with the Context API documentation and the Redux official docs.

5. Follow Best Practices: Writing clean, efficient, and secure code is crucial. Learn about best practices for performance optimization, code splitting, and security. The article React Best Practices is a helpful read.

6. Stay Updated: React and the ecosystem around it are constantly evolving. Follow React blogs, newsletters, and community forums. React Status is a weekly roundup of news and articles that can keep you updated.

7. Practice, Practice, Practice: Consistency is key. Regular coding and taking up challenges on platforms like LeetCode or CodeSandbox can significantly sharpen your skills.

By following these steps and leveraging the provided resources, you'll be on your way to improving your React skills effectively.

How to Display React Skills on Your Resume

6. Node.js

Node.js is an open-source, cross-platform JavaScript runtime environment that allows you to run JavaScript code on the server-side, enabling the development of scalable network applications.

Why It's Important

Node.js is important for an Entry-Level Developer because it enables server-side programming with JavaScript, allowing the creation of scalable, fast web applications and the use of a single language across both client and server sides. This simplifies development and opens up more job opportunities.

How to Improve Node.js Skills

Improving your Node.js skills as an entry-level developer involves understanding core concepts, best practices, and leveraging the right resources for continuous learning. Here’s a concise guide to help you enhance your Node.js proficiency:

1. Master the Basics: Ensure you have a solid understanding of JavaScript fundamentals, asynchronous programming, and Node.js core modules. Node.js Official Documentation is an excellent starting point.

2. Understand Asynchronous Programming: Node.js is built around asynchronous programming. Grasp the concepts of callbacks, promises, and async/await. Mozilla Developer Network (MDN) on Asynchronous Programming is highly recommended.

3. Learn about Frameworks: Familiarize yourself with popular Node.js frameworks like Express.js for web applications, which can simplify your development process. Check out Express.js Documentation for more details.

4. Implement Best Practices: Follow Node.js best practices for coding, such as handling errors properly, avoiding blocking the event loop, and using environment variables for configuration. Node.js Best Practices GitHub Repository is a valuable resource.

5. Utilize Tools and Libraries: Get to know essential Node.js tools and libraries that can aid in development, testing, and deployment. NPM (Node Package Manager) is crucial for managing packages. Explore NPM's Official Website for libraries that can help in your projects.

6. Practice by Building Projects: Apply what you’ve learned by building simple projects. Start with something basic like a CRUD application and gradually increase complexity.

7. Join the Community: Engage with the Node.js community through forums, social media, or attending meetups and conferences. Node.js Foundation provides resources to get involved.

8. Stay Updated: Node.js is continuously evolving, so it's important to keep up with the latest features and updates. Follow Node.js Blog for the latest news.

9. Code Reading and Review: Improve your understanding by reading other people's code and having others review yours. Platforms like GitHub offer vast repositories of Node.js projects.

10. Continuous Learning: Consider taking online courses or tutorials that offer in-depth knowledge and practical examples. NodeSchool provides interactive lessons that cover various aspects of Node.js.

By integrating these practices into your learning routine, you will significantly improve your Node.js skills and become more proficient in developing scalable and efficient applications.

How to Display Node.js Skills on Your Resume

7. SQL

SQL (Structured Query Language) is a standardized programming language used for managing and manipulating relational databases, enabling you to create, read, update, and delete database records.

Why It's Important

SQL is crucial for an Entry Level Developer because it enables efficient data retrieval, manipulation, and management from databases, a fundamental skill for developing data-driven applications and making informed decisions.

How to Improve SQL Skills

Improving your SQL skills involves a combination of understanding core concepts, practicing queries, and learning from real-world examples. Here’s a concise guide:

1. Master the Basics: Understand key SQL operations like SELECT, INSERT, UPDATE, DELETE, and how to use WHERE clauses. W3Schools is a great starting point.

2. Practice Regularly: Apply what you've learned by solving practical problems on platforms like LeetCode or HackerRank.

3. Understand Joins and Subqueries: Learn how to combine data from multiple tables effectively. SQLZoo has interactive tutorials.

4. Optimization: Learn about indexes, query optimization, and execution plans. Use The Index, Luke offers insights into database indexing and SQL performance.

5. Explore Advanced Topics: Delve into stored procedures, triggers, and transaction management for a deeper understanding. The PostgreSQL official documentation offers comprehensive guides for advanced topics, relevant across SQL databases.

6. Real-World Projects: Apply your skills on real-world projects or contribute to open-source projects. This experience is invaluable.

7. Learn from Others: Read code written by experienced developers. Sites like GitHub have numerous projects where you can see how others structure their SQL queries.

8. Stay Updated: SQL standards and database technologies evolve. Follow DB-Engines Blog for updates on database technologies.

Remember, consistent practice and exploring real-world applications are key to mastering SQL.

How to Display SQL Skills on Your Resume

8. Git

Git is a distributed version control system that allows developers to track and manage changes to their codebase, enabling collaboration and history tracking of code evolution.

Why It's Important

Git is crucial for an Entry Level Developer as it enables efficient version control, collaboration with others, and tracking of code changes, ensuring smooth project development and management.

How to Improve Git Skills

Improving your skills with Git as an Entry Level Developer involves understanding its core concepts, practicing regularly, and leveraging resources that offer in-depth knowledge and practical examples. Here are concise steps and resources to help you:

1. Grasp the Basics: Start with understanding the basics of Git. This includes familiarizing yourself with fundamental commands like git clone, git add, git commit, git push, and understanding how Git tracks changes and manages versions. Atlassian Git Tutorials offer a comprehensive starting point.

2. Use Git Frequently: Practice by using Git in your personal projects. Regular use will help reinforce your understanding and proficiency. Consider setting up a GitHub account to host your projects if you haven't already. This also gets you comfortable with remote repositories.

3. Learn Branching: Understand how branching works in Git. This is crucial for working in team environments and managing different versions of code. Learn Git Branching is an interactive tool that offers a hands-on way to master this skill.

4. Understand Pull Requests: Get comfortable with the concept of pull requests (PRs), which are essential for contributing to team projects and open-source software. GitHub's Hello World Guide introduces you to creating repositories, branching, making changes, and opening pull requests.

5. Explore Advanced Topics: As you become more comfortable, explore advanced topics such as merging conflicts, rebasing, and using Git hooks. The Pro Git Book is a free resource that covers these topics and more, in detail.

6. Utilize GUIs and IDEs: While command-line proficiency is important, using graphical interfaces can make certain tasks easier. Explore Git GUI clients like SourceTree or Git integration in IDEs like Visual Studio Code.

7. Join a Community: Engage with the Git community. Sites like Stack Overflow and GitHub Community Forum are great for asking questions, sharing knowledge, and learning from experienced developers.

Improving your Git skills is a continuous process, so stay curious and keep practicing.

How to Display Git Skills on Your Resume

9. Java

Java is a versatile, object-oriented programming language used for developing applications ranging from mobile and web to enterprise systems. It is designed to be platform-independent, allowing code to run on any device that has the Java Virtual Machine (JVM).

Why It's Important

Java is important for an Entry Level Developer because it is a widely-used, versatile programming language that forms the foundation for various types of applications, including web, mobile, and enterprise-level systems. Learning Java opens up opportunities for working on a vast range of projects and understanding core programming concepts that are applicable across other programming languages.

How to Improve Java Skills

Improving your Java skills as an entry-level developer involves a mix of theory and practice. Here are concise steps with resources:

1. Master the Basics: Ensure a solid understanding of core Java concepts. Oracle's Java Tutorials are a great place to start.

2. Practice Coding: Regular practice helps. Try solving problems on platforms like LeetCode and HackerRank.

3. Read Java Code: Analyze code from open-source projects on GitHub. Learning from others' code is invaluable.

4. Learn from Books: Books like "Effective Java" by Joshua Bloch offer deep insights. No direct link due to varying sources, but easily found online.

5. Join Java Communities: Engage with communities on Stack Overflow and Reddit. They're great for learning and solving doubts.

6. Build Projects: Apply your knowledge by building and contributing to projects. This solidifies your understanding and is great for your portfolio.

7. Understand the JVM: Knowledge of Java Virtual Machine (JVM) enhances your ability to write efficient code. Oracle provides a guide to the JVM.

8. Stay Updated: Java is constantly evolving. Follow Java-related news on InfoQ and DZone.

By combining these resources and strategies, you'll steadily improve your Java skills.

How to Display Java Skills on Your Resume

10. C#

C# is a modern, object-oriented programming language developed by Microsoft, used for developing a wide range of applications including web, mobile, and desktop applications. It runs on the .NET framework, offering robust tools for software development.

Why It's Important

C# is important for an Entry Level Developer because it is a versatile, well-supported language used widely in developing desktop, web, and mobile applications, especially within the Microsoft ecosystem, enabling a strong foundation for a career in software development.

How to Improve C# Skills

Improving your C# skills as an entry-level developer involves a mix of theory learning, practice, and community engagement. Here’s a concise guide:

1. Learn the Basics Thoroughly: Ensure you have a solid understanding of C# fundamentals. Microsoft's C# Documentation is a great starting point.

2. Practice Coding: Apply what you learn by building small projects or solving problems on platforms like LeetCode or HackerRank.

3. Read Books: Books like "C# 9.0 in a Nutshell" provide in-depth knowledge. Check Goodreads for recommendations.

4. Follow Tutorials: Websites like Pluralsight and Udemy offer comprehensive courses that range from beginner to advanced levels.

5. Use Microsoft Learn: Microsoft Learn provides interactive learning materials specifically designed for beginners.

6. Contribute to Open Source: Get involved in open-source projects on GitHub to gain real-world coding experience.

7. Join Communities: Engage with other developers on platforms like Stack Overflow, Reddit, or the C# Discord server to exchange knowledge and get help.

8. Stay Updated: Follow C#-related news on official Microsoft blogs and other tech news websites to stay updated with the latest features and best practices.

9. Review Code: Read other people’s code to learn new techniques and best practices. GitHub is a great place for this.

10. Master Tools: Get comfortable with development tools like Visual Studio, Visual Studio Code, and ReSharper to boost your productivity.

By following these steps and consistently dedicating time to learning and practicing, you'll see significant improvements in your C# skills.

How to Display C# Skills on Your Resume

11. Angular

Angular is a TypeScript-based open-source framework used for developing web applications. It provides developers with tools and libraries to build, test, and deploy rich web UIs, following a component-based architecture.

Why It's Important

Angular is important for an entry-level developer because it provides a comprehensive framework for building dynamic, scalable web applications efficiently, with built-in tools for creating responsive UIs, handling HTTP communication, and managing state, thus offering a strong foundation for professional web development.

How to Improve Angular Skills

Improving your Angular skills as an entry-level developer involves a mix of foundational learning, practical application, and community engagement. Here are concise steps with resources to help you progress:

1. Master the Basics: Ensure you have a solid understanding of TypeScript, HTML, and CSS, as these are core to Angular development. TypeScript documentation is a great place to start.

2. Official Angular Documentation: Angular's official documentation is comprehensive and includes tutorials like the Tour of Heroes, which is a hands-on introduction to Angular's core concepts.

3. Build Projects: Apply what you've learned by building small projects. Start with simple applications and gradually increase complexity. GitHub is an excellent platform to find project ideas and collaborate.

4. Online Courses and Tutorials: Platforms like Udemy and FreeCodeCamp offer courses ranging from beginner to advanced levels.

5. Understand Angular CLI: The Angular CLI is a powerful tool for initializing, developing, scaffolding, and maintaining Angular applications. Familiarize yourself with its capabilities through the CLI documentation.

6. Follow Style Guides: Adhering to best practices and coding standards is crucial. The Angular Style Guide provides recommendations on how to organize and structure your projects.

7. Participate in Communities: Join Angular communities on platforms like Reddit or Stack Overflow. Engaging with these communities can provide support, insights, and keep you updated on the latest trends.

8. Stay Updated: Angular is continuously evolving. Follow the Angular blog for the latest updates, features, and improvements.

9. Debugging and Testing: Learn debugging and testing practices in Angular. Understanding tools like Jasmine, Karma, and Protractor for testing Angular applications is crucial. The Testing guide on Angular is a good place to start.

10. Performance Optimization: Familiarize yourself with techniques to optimize Angular applications for better performance. Concepts like lazy loading, change detection strategies, and Ahead-of-Time (AOT) compilation are essential. The Angular performance checklist is a helpful resource.

By following these steps and utilizing the resources provided, you will be on your way to improving your Angular skills and advancing your development career.

How to Display Angular Skills on Your Resume

12. REST APIs

REST APIs (Representational State Transfer Application Programming Interfaces) allow different software applications to communicate with each other over the internet using standard HTTP methods (GET, POST, PUT, DELETE) in a stateless, client-server architecture. They enable the requesting of data or functionality from external services or resources in a structured, predictable format, typically JSON or XML.

Why It's Important

REST APIs are important because they provide a standard, lightweight way for different software applications to communicate and exchange data over the internet, enhancing interoperability and scalability.

How to Improve REST APIs Skills

Improving REST APIs involves enhancing performance, security, and usability. Here are concise tips for entry-level developers:

1. Use Proper HTTP Methods: Ensure you use GET, POST, PUT, DELETE, etc., appropriately to make your API intuitive. REST API Tutorial

2. Implement Pagination: For responses with large datasets, use pagination to improve performance and usability. Pagination in REST API

3. Utilize Caching: Improve response times by caching frequently accessed data. Caching in REST

4. Version Your API: Make changes without breaking existing clients by versioning your API. API Versioning

5. Secure Your API: Use HTTPS, authentication, and rate limiting to protect your API. REST API Security Essentials

6. Use Meaningful HTTP Status Codes: Return appropriate status codes to clearly communicate the outcome of API requests. HTTP Status Codes

7. Validate Input: Ensure the integrity of your API by validating user input on the server side. Input Validation

8. Document Your API: Make your API easy to use by providing clear, comprehensive documentation. Swagger

9. Follow RESTful Naming Conventions: Use consistent, resource-oriented URLs for easy understanding and usability. REST Resource Naming Guide

10. Monitor and Log: Use monitoring and logging to keep track of API performance and troubleshoot issues. API Monitoring Best Practices

By following these tips, entry-level developers can significantly improve the quality and reliability of their REST APIs.

How to Display REST APIs Skills on Your Resume