What do I need to know to become a mobile app developer?

[Hwe2]

Hi there, Please I'll like to ask what skills are required to become a mobile app developer.
My cousin wants to become a mobile app developer. She has no knowledge of HTML, CSS or programming.
I'll appreciate it if someone can list out the basic requirements or guide mova.io so I can forward it to her.
Thanks

[Chickie]

Welp, your cousin can learn how to code (any of languages) or use app builders. Maybe she wants to get a job in some IT-company, then she needs to search if they have position and look for requirements.

[JanetReese]

The best way to learn how to build new app for mobile so you can suggest him to do some online study where he can learn coding and app development

[Natashaclay]

Is there an easy way to learn coding and where to start? Being a naïve, I find it difficult to what to learn first and what is the route!!!

[Smith35]

Becoming a mobile app developer requires learning both programming and app development frameworks. Since your cousin is starting from scratch, here’s a structured path to follow: 1. Choose a Platform (Android, iOS, or Both)

• Android: Learn Java or Kotlin and use Android Studio.
• iOS: Learn Swift and use Xcode.
• Cross-platform (optional): Frameworks like Flutter (Dart), React Native (JavaScript), or Unity (C# for game apps) can help build for both platforms.

2. Learn the Basics of Programming

• Since she has no experience, start with Python or JavaScript to build logic.
• Online platforms like Codecademy, Udemy, and freeCodeCamp can help.

3. Understand App Development Concepts

• UI/UX design principles (how to create user-friendly interfaces).
• Databases & Backend (Firebase, SQLite, or backend languages like Node.js).
• APIs & Networking (how apps communicate with servers).

4. Gain Hands-on Experience

• Follow beginner-friendly tutorials on Android Developer or Hacking with Swift.
• Start with small projects like a calculator or to-do list app.
• Join communities like Stack Overflow, GitHub, or Discord groups for developers.

5. Use No-Code/Low-Code Platforms (Optional for Quick Prototyping)

• If she wants to experiment first, platforms like Thunkable, Adalo, or Bubble can help create basic apps without coding.

6. Keep Learning & Build a Portfolio

• As she progresses, she should build personal projects and showcase them on GitHub.
• Consider publishing an app on Google Play or the App Store.

Recommended Roadmap:

1. Learn basic programming (Python/JavaScript) – 1-2 months.
2. Pick a platform (Android/iOS) and learn the language – 3-6 months.
3. Build small projects & practice regularly.
4. Learn databases, APIs, and UI/UX – 6-12 months.
5. Work on a real-world app and publish it.