This article is about a discussion with special guest Kim, Product Manager from CoinGecko about "How to get started in Web 3.0 Development".

Introduction

Web 3.0, the latest evolution of the internet, is revolutionizing how we interact and transact online. In our recent Twitter Space AMA (Ask Me Anything) event of the Blockchain Boleh Series, we delved into the world of Web 3.0 with an enlightening discussion with Kim, a product manager at CoinGecko. The AMA was about how to get started in Web 3.0 development, a topic of growing interest in the blockchain community.

Notably, Kim is actively involved in the ETHKL community, a vibrant network of individuals united by a shared passion for learning and collaboration. ETHKL serves as a valuable community for knowledge-sharing and networking, fostering an environment where like-minded individuals can exchange ideas and explore the potential of Web 3.0.

Questions

1) What are the differences between Web 2.0 & Web 3.0?

The difference between Web 3.0 development and Web 2.0 development lies in the level of ownership and decentralization. In the Web 2.0 era, users could read and write content on the internet. However, in Web 3.0 development, users not only have the ability to read and write but also to own what they create.

Web 2.0 development was characterized by centralization, where ownership and control resided with service providers. This centralization extended to the software and databases powering these platforms. In contrast, Web 3.0 development embraces decentralization, with ownership distributed across a network.

Web 3.0 development allows developers to take 100% ownership of what they create, bringing a paradigm shift from the centralized control of Web 2.0 This shift to Web 3.0 promotes decentralization in various aspects, including storage, decision-making, and ownership of contracts.

In Web 2.0, centralization is evident in the concentration of power within software and databases controlled by a few entities. Web 3.0 focuses on decentralization, with storage, decision-making, and ownership distributed across a network. This fundamental difference in ownership and decentralization marks the key distinction between Web 3.0 and Web 2.0 development.

2) What are some of the most important skills to get started in Web 3 Development?

To get started with Web 3 development, there are several important skills to acquire. In the Web 2 world, logging in using a Google account is common, whereas, in Web 3, we use a wallet to log in and sign in. Instead of relying on a personal backend server like AWS in Web 2, Web 3 development involves building on top of a blockchain, using specialized languages such as Solidity, and hosting on a distributed system called the blockchain.

In Web 2, interaction with the backend system is crucial, while in Web 3, frontend code interacts directly with smart contracts. To excel in Web 3 development, it is vital to learn about user interface design, smart contracts, creating effective tests, and understanding the immutability of data. Web 3 development involves writing Solidity code and deploying it on the blockchain. In Web 3, the backend represents a collection of applications that form the infrastructure of the overall system. Developing in Web 3 requires writing code in Solidity, interacting with smart contracts, and deploying them on the blockchain. The nature of the architecture differs significantly from Web 2, emphasizing the decentralized and distributed nature of Web 3 applications.

3) How do Smart Contracts Differ from Web 2 Programming Languages?

Smart contracts differ from Web 2 programming languages in several ways. Firstly, the primary language used for developing smart contracts is Solidity, which was created by the Ethereum Foundation specifically for writing contracts on the Ethereum blockchain. In contrast, Web 2 programming languages encompass a wide range of languages like JavaScript, Python, Ruby, and more.

In the Web 2 world, developers have the freedom to create their backend servers, defining the computational power, database structure, and user authentication according to their needs. They have more flexibility and control over the infrastructure.

On the other hand, Web 3 development with smart contracts works within the constraints and limitations of the underlying blockchain itself. Developers must adhere to the rules and restrictions imposed by the blockchain network they are working with. This includes considerations such as gas fees, transaction throughput, and consensus mechanisms. Smart contract development requires understanding how to design and write code that can function within the decentralized and distributed nature of the blockchain ecosystem.

Overall, smart contract development in Web 3 entails a different set of considerations and constraints compared to Web 2 programming languages. It requires a deep understanding of blockchain technology and the specific programming language, such as Solidity, used for creating contracts on the Ethereum Blockchain.

4) How can someone new in programming start in Web 3 Development?

1. Explore online learning resources: Utilize platforms like freecodecamp.org, YouTube channels, and online courses offering tutorials and guides specifically focused on Web 3 development. Resources such as cryptozombies.io provide hands-on learning experiences.

2. Join communities: Engage with communities on platforms like Discord and Telegram that are dedicated to Web 3 development. These communities offer spaces to ask questions, share knowledge, and connect with like-minded individuals. Participating in communities like ETHKL can provide valuable networking opportunities.

3. Work on projects: Engage in hackathons and personal projects to apply your skills in practical scenarios. Hackathons allow you to collaborate with others, learn from experienced developers, and showcase your abilities. Building projects will enhance your technical skills and provide valuable experience in Web 3 development.

5) How & What Web 3 Hackathons one can join?

1. Search online: Search Web 3 hackathons to find events happening locally or globally. Many organizations and communities host hackathons regularly, providing opportunities for participants to showcase their Web 3 development skills.

2. Encode Club: Encode Club is an organization that organizes hackathons focused on Web 3 development. They host hackathons periodically, offering a platform for participants to collaborate, learn, and build projects using blockchain and decentralized technologies.

   

3. ETHGlobal: ETHGlobal is a prominent organization known for organizing hackathons specifically for Ethereum and Web 3 development. They host various hackathons throughout the year, bringing together developers, designers, and enthusiasts to build innovative applications and tools on the Ethereum platform.

6) How can we find teammates for these hackathons?

1. Utilize online channels: Utilize online platforms and communities dedicated to hackathons and Web 3 development. Websites like Devpost, Hackathon.io, or dedicated Discord and Telegram channels often have dedicated spaces for participants to find teammates. Post your skills, interests, and the type of project you want to work on and connect with others who share similar goals.

2. Ask in communities: Engage with Web 3 development communities, forums, and social media groups. Pose your interest in joining a hackathon team and ask if anyone is looking for teammates. Communities like Encode Club, ETHGlobal, or specific blockchain and programming language communities often have channels for team formation.

3. Emphasize learning: Highlight that your primary goal is to learn and gain experience rather than solely focusing on winning prizes. This can attract like-minded individuals who are also passionate about learning and collaboration. By fostering a learning-focused team environment, you can create a supportive and educational experience for all members.

7) Common mistakes when learning Web 3 Development, how to avoid?

1. Spending too much time searching for the perfect learning material: It's common to feel overwhelmed by the abundance of resources available for Web 3 development. Instead of getting stuck in the search for the perfect resource, it's important to start learning with the available materials. Learning by doing and gaining hands-on experience is key. Choose a beginner-friendly resource or tutorial, and dive into the practical aspects of Web 3 development.

2. Timing and prioritization: Some learners may wait for the perfect moment or the right set of resources before starting their Web 3 journey. However, timing should not hinder your learning progress. It's important to start learning as soon as possible, even if you feel that your knowledge is incomplete. The Web 3 landscape is evolving rapidly, so it's better to gain knowledge and experience early on and build upon it over time.

3. Overthinking and analysis paralysis: Web 3 development can be complex, and it's easy to get overwhelmed by the intricacies. It's important to remember that learning is an iterative process. Instead of getting caught up in overthinking, take action and start coding. Embrace the trial-and-error process, learn from mistakes, and iterate on your solutions. Taking action and doing practical work will help solidify your understanding and accelerate your learning.

8) How to pursue a Career in Web 3?

1. Stay curious: Web 3 is a rapidly evolving field with new technologies and trends emerging constantly. Stay curious and keep up with the latest developments in the industry. Follow blogs, forums, and social media accounts related to Web 3 to stay informed about new advancements and opportunities.

2. Get prepared and seek opportunities: Invest time in learning the fundamental technologies and concepts of Web 3, such as blockchain, decentralized applications, and smart contracts. Seek out opportunities to gain hands-on experience, such as participating in hackathons, contributing to open-source projects, or building your Web 3 applications. Building a strong foundation and practical skills will make you more competitive in the job market.

3. Embrace the community-driven culture: Web 3 thrives on collaboration and community participation. Contribute to the Web 3 community by sharing your knowledge, engaging in discussions, and helping others. Attend meetups, conferences, and webinars to network with like-minded individuals and industry professionals. These connections can lead to valuable insights, mentorship, and potential job opportunities.

Remember, the Web 3 industry is still growing, and job opportunities are expanding. By staying curious, continuously learning, actively participating in the community, and seizing relevant opportunities, you can position yourself for a successful career in Web 3. Embrace the exciting challenges and possibilities that Web 3 brings and be open to learning and adapting as the industry evolves.

Additional Q & A

Q1: Which Blockchain would you recommend learning smart contracts on?

When it comes to learning smart contracts, Ethereum is often recommended as the go-to blockchain platform. Because:

1. Ethereum: Ethereum is the largest and most established blockchain platform for smart contracts. It has a vibrant ecosystem with a wide range of development tools, resources, and community support. By focusing on Ethereum, you can tap into a wealth of learning materials, documentation, and developer communities that can help you understand and work with smart contracts effectively.

2. Solidity: Solidity is the primary programming language used for writing smart contracts on the Ethereum platform. By learning Solidity, you gain the ability to write, deploy, and interact with smart contracts on Ethereum. Solidity has a syntax similar to JavaScript, making it relatively accessible for developers familiar with web development.

3. EVM: The Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) is the runtime environment where smart contracts are executed on the Ethereum network. It's crucial to have a solid understanding of how the EVM works, its architecture, and the mechanics behind executing smart contracts. Learning about the EVM will deepen your understanding of how smart contracts interact with the Ethereum blockchain.

Q2: What are the efforts to build the ETHKL community?

Building ETHKL, a community focused on Ethereum and blockchain learning and networking, can be a highly beneficial undertaking. By creating a platform for knowledge sharing, ETHKL enables individuals to exchange insights, experiences, and expertise in the field. This collaborative environment fosters continuous learning and keeps members up to date with the latest developments. Additionally, ETHKL offers valuable networking opportunities, allowing like-minded individuals to connect, form partnerships, and explore potential job prospects within the industry. Through workshops, events, and study groups, ETHKL facilitates skill development, empowering members to enhance their understanding of Ethereum and blockchain technologies. Moreover, the community provides vital support and mentorship, creating a nurturing environment for individuals to navigate the complexities of the blockchain space. By establishing clear goals and nurturing active participation, ETHKL has the potential to make a meaningful impact in the Ethereum and blockchain ecosystem, fostering growth and innovation within the community.

Conclusion

Web 3 development represents a paradigm shift from the centralized control of Web 2, emphasizing ownership, decentralization, and user empowerment. By acquiring essential skills, participating in hackathons, and engaging with communities like ETHKL, individuals can enter the world of Web 3 development. It is important to avoid common learning mistakes, stay curious, and actively seek opportunities to gain hands-on experience. By embracing the collaborative and community-driven nature of Web 3, individuals can pursue a fulfilling career in this rapidly evolving field and contribute to the ongoing innovation and transformation of the Internet.