Full-Stack Developer Path
Frontend + backend + deployment. The complete stack that gets full-stack devs hired.
Your Path to Hired
VS Code
FreeIndustry standard. Extensions for every language and framework. Debugging, Git integration, terminal, everything in one place.
React + Next.js
FreeReact dominates job listings. Next.js adds SSR, routing, and API routes. This combo is what most companies actually use.
Node.js + Hono or Express
FreeJavaScript everywhere. Hono for modern, lightweight APIs. Express if the job requires it. One language across the full stack.
Supabase or PostgreSQL
Free tiersSupabase gives you Postgres + auth + storage. Full backend in minutes. Learn raw SQL too, interviewers will ask.
Cursor
$20/mo · Free tierMulti-file edits, codebase understanding. Builds full-stack features fast. The productivity multiplier that ships features in hours, not days.
Vercel + Railway
Free tiersVercel for frontend. Railway for backend services and databases. Live URLs for every project, nothing impresses like a working demo.
GitHub
FreePin 4-5 full-stack projects. Write detailed READMEs. Include live demo links. Your GitHub IS your resume.
Your Complete Stack
VS Code
Editor. Free
React + Next.js
Frontend. Free
Node.js + Hono
Backend. Free
Supabase
Database. Free tier
Cursor
AI coding, $20/mo
Vercel + Railway
Deploy. Free tiers
GitHub
Portfolio. Free
What Hiring Managers Actually Look For
One deployed SaaS > 10 tutorials
Build a real product with auth, database, payments, and deployment. One project that looks and works like a real SaaS will outshine a portfolio of todo apps.
Learn Docker basics
You don't need to be a DevOps expert, but understanding containers, Dockerfiles, and docker-compose separates you from other full-stack candidates.
Know CI/CD (GitHub Actions)
Set up automated tests and deployments for your projects. It shows you think about code quality and production workflows, not just writing code.
TypeScript is basically required
Most full-stack job listings require TypeScript now. It's not optional anymore, learn it early and use it in every project.
Average Salary Range
Mid-level full-stack developer · varies by location and experience
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