JavaScript For Dummies

JavaScript has evolved quite a bit since its earliest days, from a relatively basic scripting language to a full-blown programming language in its own right. You can use JavaScript to create even more breathtakingly cool Web sites than ever before. You've probably seen Web sites with the following features:

• Images that change when your mouse moves over them
• Slide-show animations
• Input forms with pop-up messages that help you fill in the fields correctly
• Customized messages that welcome repeat visitors

All of these features (and much more) can be created with JavaScript. The thing is, JavaScript isn't easy to use. The JavaScript language itself has become more complex than its earlier incarnations – but that's where his new, improved, better-tasting edition of JavaScript For Dummies comes in! Even if you're not a crackerjack programmer, you can use the techniques and sample scripts in this book to create interactive, "intelligent" Web pages bursting with animated effects.

JavaScript For Dummies, 3rd Edition, gives you all you need to know to get started with JavaScript, plus some really cool JavaScript tricks, all explained from the point of view of the first-time JavaScript programmer. Here are just a few of the topics you'll find covered:

• Understanding JavaScript programming concepts
• Writing your first script
• Sampling browser cookies
• Making your pages interactive with button events and mouse rollovers
• Fiddling with forms and frames
• Automating your Web site
• Top Ten lists on online resources, common mistakes (and how to avoid them), and debugging your scripts
• Appendixes on JavaScript reserved words, color values, special characters, and the document object model reference

JavaScript For Dummies, 3rd Edition, also includes a CD-ROM with trial versions of popular Web creations tools, such as HomeSite, Dreamweaver, NetObjects ScriptBuilder, and SurfMap JavaScript.

So if you've worked with HTML before but want to add more flexibility and punch to your pages, or even if you've never written a stick of code in your life but are eager to hop on the JavaScript bandwagon, JavaScript For Dummies, 3rd Edition, is the book for you.

Emily A. Vander Veer has authored several books and numerous articles on Web technologies and trends, including JavaScript For Dummies Quick Reference.