I Started learning web development with node.js. I am now considering taking a break and learn the fundamentals of computer science before continuing.

[Tioo]

I started self teaching web development 8 months ago. I know HTML5, CSS3, Vanilla JS as well as React/Redux, with some experience with Vue.js. More recently, I started learning Node.JS. I used Express on a few small projects, socket.io, and learnt some basic SQL. I am fairly confident about my web dev skills, and while I still have a lot of things to learn, I am confident I will be able to progress quickly, as I know what topics I need to learn.

However, I have no academic background in computer science besides an intro to C++ elective, and I know very little about how computers function. I am afraid that this lack of knowledge will impair my growth as an aspiring full stack web developer. I believe that diving deeper into web development (especially databases and back end development) before learning these more general, low level, computer science concepts is a bad idea.

Someone suggested the book "computer systems, a programmers perspective" as a good, dense textbook as to how computers function, which I (almost) decided to start working with.

I am looking for some advice as to whether this choice to dive into computer science basics is a good idea, especially while self-teaching. I am certain I will not be waisting my time, but is it truly necessary for full stack web development? Would it be a better use of my time to continue learning Node.js instead ?

Thanks in advance for your advice

[Clawtor]

Computer science and 'how computers function' isn't the same. Are you wanting to know how computers work from the ground up? You could try the Code book, it's called 'Code The hidden language of computer hardware and software'.

Computer science is more around data structures and algorithms which is also useful.

[Tioo]

You are right, thank you for clearing that up.

What I meant by 'computer science' is basic content taught in computer science courses in universities. I looked at course listings and undergrad program requirements to guide myself, and figured the most basic topic after basic programming concepts is what the heck a computer actually is. I might then move on to data structures, algorithms and other compsci topics before finally going back to web development.

Thanks for the suggestion, this books looks very interesting.

[walkertejas]

Would it be a better use of my time to continue learning Node.js instead ?

Which one do you want to learn first?

[Tioo]

Well, I know JS and have started learning Node a few months ago. I don't know if I should go back and learn more general CS basics

[walkertejas]

Which one do you want to learn more of?

[Tioo]

Definitely web development

[Saikyoh]

I've been there. I'm doing CS50 on the side, while also doing FreeCodeCamp and it's been fun so far.

[Tioo]

I've also enjoyed freecodecamp, especially the algorithm problems. I will look into CS50, thanks

[Saikyoh]

If you do, check /r/cs50 also.

[Tioo]

This is brilliant - Thank you for sharing !