How to Get Started with Ruby On Rails Development

With Ruby on Rails, a developer can create and deploy a wide array of different web applications. Just like with any web application framework, there are some key fundamentals to Ruby on Rails to help you design and develop the best software applications possible with clean, efficient code.

Ruby on Rails is a framework built on the Ruby programming language. It is known for being simple and productivity-driven. Ruby on Rails allows developers to create web applications quickly with a clean code structure.

If you want to learn Ruby on Rails and/or are interested in optimizing your existing knowledge, here is how to get started.

Benefits Of Ruby On Rails For Beginners

If you are a beginner, Ruby on Rails is easy to learn. It has features such as scaffolding and built-in tools. Use these to accelerate development and reduce repetitive tasks.

In addition, a large, supportive online community is willing to hear and answer questions from first-time Ruby on Rails users. For further guidance, there are also libraries – known as gems – that will extend the framework’s functionality.

Learn Ruby Fundamentals

Discover your Ruby basics, exploring classes, methods, and object-oriented programming principles if you are unfamiliar with them. Understanding Ruby as a programming language is best because Rails relies on it. When companies hire Ruby on Rails developers, they want their candidates to understand the fundamentals.

Set Up Your Ruby On Rails Development Environment

To start with this framework, you must install a few key components: Ruby, Rails, and a database system. Most Ruby on Rails developers use PostgreSQL or SQLite for their Rails projects.

Download Ruby directly from its official website. Ensure you have the latest version. After Ruby is installed, test the installation to confirm it is set up correctly. Use the Ruby terminal to run the gem install rails command. This will automatically install the Rails framework.

Set Up a Text Editor to Start

Choose a text editor or IDE that provides Rails syntax highlighting and debugging support. Ruby on Rails developers commonly choose Visual Studio Code, RubyMine, and Sublime Text. Configure your text editor with Ruby and Rails extensions to optimize your productivity.

Create Your First Rails Application

Run the new app_name for Rails to generate a new Rails project. This will set up essential files and directories. Then, navigate to the app folder and start the Rails server with the Rails server command to see the app running locally.

Dig into The Rails Folder Structure

The app directly contains all application logic, i.e. models, views, and controllers. The config folder has configuration files. The db folder handles all database-related operations, such as migrations.

Explore MVC Architecture

Rails follows a Model-View-Controller pattern to separate application logic. This helps to maintain its code. The model handles data, the view displays content, and the controller bridges the gap.

Set Up a Database for Your Ruby On Rails App

Use the rails db: create command to initialize the database you selected. The database configurations are defined in the config.database.yml file.

Run Your First Migration

Migrations manage database schema changes. Create your first with the rails generate migration migration_name command. Then, use rails db to migrate and update the database schema.

Routes define how HTTP requests are handled. They can be added to the config/routes—rb file.

Create a New Controller

Generate a controller using the rails generate controller ControllerName command. This will also generate views and helper files. From there, you can define actions in your controller to handle incoming requests.

Create Your First Model

Models interact with your database, and your first can be created using rails generate model ModelName. Views display HTML content to users. Place your files in the app/views directory and create your first view.

Helpers provide reusable methods to simplify view logic. Create custom helpers in the app/helpers folder. Place custom CSS files in the app/assets/stylesheets directory. Rails integrate easily with CSS frameworks.

Install Rails Gems

Gems are usable Ruby libraries that extend the functionality of Ruby on Rails. Add them to the Gemfile. Run bundle install to install gems. Popular options can be found on the official RubyGems website.

Work with Forms

Simplify form creation with the form_with helper. This binds forms to models and will reduce boilerplate code. When starting your first Ruby on Rails development, there is much more to learn. Validate user input, add flash messages, and understand associations.

In addition, you should set up a development workflow and write tests with RSpec. Debug and deploy your application. Optimize app performance. Work with APIs.

Author Profile

Adam Regan

Deputy Editor

Features and account management. 3 years media experience. Previously covered features for online and print editions.

Email Adam@MarkMeets.com