A React Native learning path for absolute beginners

Before diving into React Native, build a solid base:

• JavaScript Essentials
  • Variables, functions, loops, arrays, objects
  • ES6+ features: arrow functions, destructuring, modules, promises, async/await
• TypeScript (optional but recommended)
  • Strong typing helps avoid bugs in larger apps.
• Basic HTML & CSS
  • Even though React Native uses its own styling system, CSS concepts (flexbox, layout) are crucial.

Learn React first, since React Native is built on it:

• Core concepts: components, props, state, JSX
• Hooks: useState, useEffect, useContext
• Component composition and reusability
• Simple projects: a to-do list, a counter app, or a weather widget

Now move into React Native:

• Setup environment: Node.js, Expo CLI (easy start), or React Native CLI (more control)
• Core components: View, Text, Image, ScrollView, FlatList, TextInput, Button
• Styling: React Native’s StyleSheet, flexbox layouts
• Navigation: React Navigation library (stack, tab, drawer navigation)
• Platform differences: iOS vs Android quirks

• State management: Context API, Redux, or Zustand
• Networking: Fetch API, Axios for REST APIs
• Data persistence: AsyncStorage, SQLite, Realm
• Forms & validation: Formik, React Hook Form
• Device APIs: Camera, location, notifications (via Expo or native modules)

• Performance optimization: FlatList optimization, memoization, avoiding unnecessary renders
• Animations: React Native Reanimated, Gesture Handler
• Native modules: bridging to Swift/Java/Kotlin if needed
• Testing: Jest, React Native Testing Library
• Deployment: Publishing to App Store & Google Play

Apply your skills with real apps:

• Beginner projects: calculator, notes app, quiz app
• Intermediate projects: chat app, e-commerce prototype, fitness tracker
• Advanced projects: cross-platform productivity app, social media clone, or bilingual learning app (perfect for your teaching interest 😉)