Learn Solidity with online courses and programs

Solidity is an important programming language for designing blockchain applications or pursuing a career in blockchain development. Learn how to use Solidity language to create blockchain-based applications.

Solidity | Introduction Image Description

What is Solidity?

To understand Solidity, it's important to know what a smart contract is. Smart contracts are programs and digital contracts stored on a blockchain that run automatically when predetermined conditions are fulfilled. This automates the execution of an agreement and ensures all participants are confident of the result without wasting time or external interruptions. They can also automatically trigger an upcoming task or action when conditions are met. They work through simple “if/when…then…” statements.^{Footnote 1}

Solidity is an object-oriented programming language specially designed for writing smart contracts on the Ethereum blockchain.^{Footnote 2} It’s an important tool in blockchain-based application development and makes it easy to write smart contracts.^{Footnote 3}

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Why use smart contracts?

There are many benefits of smart contracts, including:

They are automated and don’t require any paperwork or manual filing of documents, which makes the whole process of contract execution speedier and more efficient.
Transaction records are encrypted and hard for hackers to access.
There’s no need for an intermediary to handle transactions. This can help save on costs and fees.

Solidity tutorial curriculum

A Solidity course curriculum can include topics for both novice and advanced learners. After being introduced to Solidity, smart contracts, and blockchain technology, beginner-level courses may also cover writing Solidity code, using the Solidity compiler, and deploying contracts on the Ethereum network. First-time learners may need to review the foundational elements of programming and basic programming principles like loop statements and conditionals.

Mid-level courses may focus on working with structs, string manipulation, mappings, and arrays. Learners can practice how to work with events, integrate external libraries, and handle errors. They can also explore contract inheritance, design patterns for smart contracts, and security best practices.

Experienced learners interested in studying more advanced topics may dive deeper into topics such as:

Contract testing
Gas optimization
Debugging techniques
Access control
Working with the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM)
Contract upgradability
State channels
Discussions on ethical considerations and regulatory compliance essential for blockchain technology
Remix Solidity, a web-based integrated development environment used to develop smart contracts. It includes features like syntax highlighting and testing frameworks.

A comprehensive program can help learners acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to become proficient in the Solidity programming language.^{Footnote 4} With edX, you can study computer science and programming core concepts through a bachelor’s degree or an accelerated boot camp. Advanced learners can also opt to pursue a master’s degree, while professionals may leverage an executive education program to suit their hectic work schedules. Find the right learning path to suit your needs.

Explore Solidity developer jobs

Acquiring Solidity programming skills can open up a range of exciting career opportunities in the blockchain industry in positions such as:^{Footnote 5}

Blockchain solutions architect: offers guidance on blockchain technology and design tasks.
Blockchain developer: builds decentralized applications on the Ethereum blockchain and optimizes protocols.
Blockchain quality engineer: conducts testing and automation of blockchain frameworks.
Blockchain security expert: identifies risks and potential threats, develops protocols, and performs security audits of blockchain-based solutions.
Blockchain architect: designs solutions and systems based on blockchain technology.

How to become a Solidity developer online

For learners interested in pursuing career opportunities in the field of blockchain, online courses that cover Solidity can help them develop the knowledge to build projects and execute contracts. Learners can add these skills to their portfolios and network with tutors and other learners to expand their knowledge. Some online courses even offer certificates post-completion.

Learners may also benefit from attending blockchain meetups, conferences, and events. These provide networking opportunities with other Solidity developers and offer updates about recent developments in this field. Contributing to open-source Solidity projects can also be a good way to gain practical experience.

While every role will have different requirements, employers may want their candidates to have knowledge of specific programming frameworks and technology stacks, and have prior experience. You can start building essential skills and knowledge with a variety of educational opportunities made available through edX. Pursue a master’s degree in computer science, or take advantage of faster-paced boot camps in coding as well as cybersecurity to help prepare you for your next career. Start your learning journey today.

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Frequently asked questions

How can I learn Solidity?

Learning Solidity might seem daunting initially, but with the right approach, you can develop your skill set. Online courses can build your understanding of the foundational elements of the programming language to help you become proficient. Reading Solidity documentation can also offer in-depth information about syntax, data types, and functions. Mastering Solidity is a continuous process and requires time, effort, and motivation.

How can I become a Solidity developer?

Learners who want to become skilled Solidity developers can benefit from having a good grasp of blockchain technology and the Ethereum ecosystem. With this background, they can take an online Solidity tutorial, read Solidity documentation, practice coding, and develop simple, smart contracts. Familiarizing yourself with Ethereum development tools like Ganache and Remix Solidity can also be helpful.

How long does it take to learn Solidity?

This depends on the learners' chosen path and their commitment, dedication, and practice. Learners taking online courses can expect to spend anywhere from a few hours to several weeks and months completing coursework. Some courses are self-paced while others have a fixed schedule with live assignments. The time needed may also change based on the learner’s background in programming and blockchain. Those who are new to programming may take a longer time to become adept, while those who already have a strong foundation may learn faster.

What is a Solidity developer?

A Solidity developer specializes in writing smart contracts on the Ethereum blockchain using the Solidity programming language. A Solidity developer uses knowledge of blockchain technology, decentralized applications (dApps), and the Ethereum environment. Solidity developers work on making the security of blockchain apps robust.