The Top Free Resources to Learn Ruby and Ruby on Rails

Ruby on Rails has gained immense popularity among entrepreneurs looking to build web applications swiftly and efficiently. If you have a creative app design and want to develop it without spending a fortune, now is the perfect time to start learning Ruby on Rails. Online resources abound, making it easier than ever to learn at your own pace. Below, we highlight the best free sources to get you started.

Podcasts and Screencasts

Podcasts and screencasts are great for visual learners or individuals who prefer auditory learning. Here are two highly regarded resources:

RubyTapas

RubyTapas (Hosted by Avdi Grimm) is a platform that delivers educational screencasts on Ruby and Rails. Episodes are released twice a week, providing valuable insights and advanced knowledge for Rails developers. The content is ideal for those who want to dive deep into specific aspects of Ruby and Rails.

RubyRogues

RubyRogues is a DevChat podcast that covers a range of topics related to Ruby and Rails development. Each episode includes guest interviews and discussions, often released almost every week. It's perfect for those interested in the broader context of Ruby and Rails development.

Books and Online Courses

Books and online courses provide structured learning paths, making it easier to understand complex concepts.

PluralSight

PluralSight is a technology learning platform that offers tools to assess your skills and help you solve Rails problems. Notably, they offer a subscription service ranging from $29 to $49 per month. However, PluralSight is not a 100% free resource; it primarily serves those willing to invest in their learning journey.

Code Academy

Code Academy provides online courses in Ruby on Rails. These courses include lessons, quizzes, and assignments, making it a self-paced learning environment. While Code Academy does offer some free content, their full courses require a subscription. Nevertheless, you can start your journey with their introductory course for free.

Blogs

Blogs are a crucial source of information for developers, offering insights from experienced professionals and up-to-date news.

Ruby on Rails Blog

The Ruby on Rails Blog is the official blog, where updates and important news about the framework are shared. Regularly checking this blog can keep you informed about the latest developments in Ruby on Rails.

The Phrase Blog

The The Phrase Blog is tailored for developers and product managers working with software localization and internationalization. It features a variety of tutorials and interviews with industry professionals, making it a valuable resource for anyone working on multi-lingual web applications.

Free Resources for Beginners

For those looking for more free resources, here are a few great options:

Learn Ruby by Codecademy

Learn Ruby by Codecademy offers a beginner-friendly introduction to the Ruby programming language. This course is free to start and provides practical, hands-on learning experiences.

Rails for Zombies by Code School

Rails for Zombies is a fun, free tutorial that teaches the basics of Ruby on Rails through interactive lessons and challenges. This resource is particularly beginner-friendly and engaging.

Ruby on Rails Tutorial Hartl Book

Ruby on Rails Tutorial by Michael Hartl is a comprehensive book that walks readers through the process of building a small web application. It is available for free on Hartl’s website after a short free trial. This book is highly recommended for those who prefer a structured learning approach.

Ruby on Rails Screencasts

Railscasts are a series of screencasts that demonstrate practical Ruby and Rails development techniques. The content is freely available and perfect for those who learn best through visual guides.

Conclusion

Learning Ruby and Ruby on Rails can be a rewarding journey, and the resources mentioned above provide a solid foundation for beginners. Whether you prefer podcasts, screencasts, books, or online courses, there's no shortage of free resources to help you master these technologies. Start experimenting and building today, and you'll be well on your way to becoming a proficient Ruby on Rails developer.