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How to Learn jQuery

jQuery is a cross-browser JavaScript library used to make writing code more simple. Therefore, understanding JavaScript prior to beginning to learn jQuery is useful. In this guide, we’ll review some common steps you can take to learn jQuery.

jQuery is a unique coding language that relies heavily on a working understanding of JavaScript, HTML, CSS and general programming concepts.

jQuery was first announced by creator John Resig in 2006. It's an open source platform, meaning it contributes a significant amount of free code that anyone can access, learn from and use in their projects. Several iterations of jQuery have been released over the years, including a mobile-focused version called jQuery Mobile — though that project was officially deprecated by the jQuery team in 2021 and is no longer actively developed. The Open JS Foundation is responsible for expanding jQuery products and coordinates all projects.

It's worth understanding where jQuery fits in 2026. For new projects, most developers now reach for modern JavaScript, or a framework like React or Vue, rather than jQuery. But jQuery remains one of the most widely deployed JavaScript libraries in existence — it's present on a large majority of websites that use any JavaScript library at all, largely because it powers so much of the WordPress ecosystem and countless older codebases still in production. That means the most common reason to learn jQuery today isn't to start something new with it, but to confidently read, maintain and update the jQuery code you'll inevitably encounter in existing projects.

How Is jQuery Used?

jQuery is used by front-end, back-end and full-stack developers in the creation of websites. It makes using JavaScript easier and more time efficient by giving developers the tools to manipulate how the JavaScript works on a site. It enables a developer to add creative elements to a website. Numerous websites use jQuery.

In very simple terms, jQuery takes complex JavaScript code that may take many lines and simplifies them into wrapped text that only takes a line or two. Even more simply, jQuery enables users to do more with less. It allows a user to make changes once code is already written into a browser. This jQuery basic tutorial exemplifies how jQuery handles a variety of tasks such as DOM traversal, DOM manipulation, animation, AJAX and event handling. It has an API that works in a variety of web browsers. As a platform, jQuery can help create plug-ins that expand on the capabilities of what’s already in the library. jQuery handles and minimizes cross-browser discrepancies.

What Do I Need to Know Before jQuery?

jQuery is a programming language that becomes easier to learn if you have an understanding of general coding concepts; in particular JavaScript and how it interacts with CSS and HTML. A basic understanding of these languages is also crucial. Here’s what to study before diving into jQuery.

  1. 1

    Javascript:

  2. 2

    HTML:

  3. 3

    CSS:

  4. 4

    General Coding Concepts:

These simple strategies and tips will make learning jQuery easier for the aspiring coder:

  1. 1

    Start with the basics:

  2. 2

    Use the latest version of jQuery:

  3. 3

    Take a class:

  4. 4

    Utilize an array of online resources:

  5. 5

    Network with other developers:

  6. 6

    Practice teaching:

  7. 7

    Understand basic syntax:

  8. 8

    Familiarize yourself with plug-ins:

  9. 9

    Be open to being a lifelong learner:

  10. 10

    Visit jQuery.com to see FAQs:

  11. 11

    Visit a forum like Stack Overflow:

Frequently Asked Questions

jQuery is a useful tool to have in your arsenal as a website developer or coder. It simplifies other coding languages. In addition to learning jQuery, you may want to explore the other programming languages to learn.

While it’s possible to teach yourself coding, it isn’t always an easy route to take. If you do, it may take longer than enrolling in a class or tech bootcamp. With jQuery in particular, you will have to learn the basics of JavaScript, CSS and HTML first, which only extends the learning journey. Some of the pitfalls of self-study may include knowledge gaps, faulty information from false resources and becoming frustrated by the learning process. Learning to code is like learning a new language. It’s usually a good idea to have the help of a person who is already fluent.

Information last updated: July 2026