It uses the V8 JavaScript engine to execute JavaScript code outside of a web browser. With Node.js, you can use JavaScript to write command line tools and to perform server-side scripting.

Lots of JavaScript developers use the Firebox extension to inspect HTML and modify the code in real time. You won’t need it at first, but it’ll come in handy as you progress.

Matthew Tyson updated the article with newer syntax and code examples in May 2024. This article covers a sample of JavaScript statements you are most likely to see and use in your JavaScript programs.