Complete the following setup before beginning any exercises to ensure a smooth learning experience.
Topics Covered in This JavaScript & jQuery Tutorial:
Setting up Your Class Files
Pre-Exercise Setup Requirements
Clear workspace ensures you can easily access Desktop and class files
Contains all prepared materials and templates for tutorial exercises
Preserves original files while giving you freedom to experiment and make mistakes
File Duplication Methods
| Feature | Mac | Windows |
|---|---|---|
| Selection | Click once on folder | Click once on folder |
| Copy Command | Cmd-D (duplicate) | Ctrl-C (copy) |
| Paste Command | Not needed | Ctrl-V (paste) |
| Location | Same directory | Bottom of folder list |
Creating Your Own Copy of Class Files
Throughout this workbook, you'll be editing carefully prepared class files that serve as your hands-on practice environment. Rather than working directly with the original files—which could lead to accidental modifications or loss of reference material—we'll establish a personal workspace that's entirely yours to modify and experiment with.
- Clear your desktop workspace by minimizing or hiding any open windows so you have a clean view of the Desktop.
- Navigate to and open the Class Files folder from your course materials.
Follow the instructions below that correspond to your operating system to create your personal copy:
Mac:
- Single-click on the JavaScript jQuery Class folder to select it (avoid double-clicking, which will open the folder).
- Press Cmd–D to create an instant duplicate of the entire folder structure.
- Rename the duplicate folder to yourname-JavaScript jQuery Class, replacing "yourname" with your actual name for easy identification.
Windows:
- Single-click on the JavaScript jQuery Class folder to select it without opening.
- Press CTRL–C to copy the folder and all its contents to your clipboard.
- Press CTRL–V to paste a complete copy in the same directory.
- Locate the new copy (Windows typically places it at the bottom of the folder list) and rename it yourname-JavaScript jQuery Class, substituting your actual name.
Congratulations! You now have a dedicated workspace with your own complete set of class files. This personal copy gives you the freedom to experiment, make mistakes, and iterate without any risk to the original materials. Let's dive in and start building your JavaScript and jQuery expertise!
Mac Users: File Duplication Process
Select the Folder
Click once on the JavaScript jQuery Class folder to highlight and select it
Duplicate
Press Cmd-D keyboard shortcut to create an instant duplicate in the same location
Rename
Change the duplicate folder name to yourname-JavaScript jQuery Class for easy identification
Windows Users: File Duplication Process
Select the Folder
Click once on the JavaScript jQuery Class folder to highlight and select it
Copy
Press Ctrl-C keyboard shortcut to copy the folder to your system clipboard
Paste
Press Ctrl-V to paste the copied folder - it may appear at the bottom of the folder list
Rename
Change the new folder name to yourname-JavaScript jQuery Class for personal identification
You now have your own dedicated set of class files to modify throughout the tutorial. This approach protects the original materials while giving you complete freedom to experiment.
Benefits of Personal File Copies
Safe Experimentation
Make changes and test code without fear of corrupting original tutorial materials.
Progress Tracking
Keep your completed exercises and modifications as a portfolio of your learning journey.
Easy Recovery
Original files remain untouched, allowing you to start fresh if needed during any exercise.