#guide web app developer

[gourresearch]

Zero to Web Developer: An Absolute Beginner’s Guide

Welcome to the exciting journey of becoming a web developer! In today’s digital age, the web is an integral part of our lives, and web development is at the heart of it all. If you’re an absolute beginner with little or no prior experience in programming or web development, fear not. This guide is designed to be your compass, your starting point, and your trusted companion as you embark on this incredible adventure.

Imagine being able to create your own websites, build web applications, and even pursue a career in one of the most dynamic and in-demand industries. Whether you aspire to showcase your portfolio, launch an online business, or simply quench your curiosity about the inner workings of the internet, this journey begins with a single step, and that step starts here.

In the coming chapters, we will demystify web development, one concept at a time. You’ll learn the fundamental building blocks: HTML for structuring content, CSS for styling, and JavaScript for interactivity. We’ll explore the tools and technologies that power the web and guide you through the process of crafting your very first web page.

But this journey is not just about the technical aspects; it’s about unleashing your creativity, problem-solving skills, and the joy of making things come to life on the internet. So, let’s dive in, hands-on and step by step, as we transform you from a complete novice to a confident web app developers. Buckle up, and let’s embark on this adventure together!

What is Web Development?

Web development is the process of building and maintaining websites and web applications. It involves a combination of skills, including programming, design, and problem-solving.

Web developers use various programming languages, frameworks, and tools to create websites and web-based software that can run on web browsers.

Here’s a beginner’s roadmap or “stature” for web development:

**1. HTML (HyperText Markup Language):

Start with HTML, the backbone of web development.

Learn how to structure content using HTML elements.

Understand tags, attributes, headings, paragraphs, lists, and links.

2. CSS (Cascading Style Sheets):

Dive into CSS to control the appearance and layout of web pages.

Learn about selectors, properties, values, and styling rules.

Explore layout techniques, such as flexbox and grid.

3. JavaScript:

Begin your journey into JavaScript, the programming language of the web.

Learn about variables, data types, and operators.

Understand control structures like if statements and loops.

Get familiar with functions and event handling.

4. Responsive Web Design:

Learn how to make your websites look good on various screen sizes.

Study media queries and responsive design principles.

Practice mobile-first development.

5. Version Control (Git):

Start using Git to track changes in your code.

Create a GitHub or GitLab account to collaborate and showcase your projects.

6. Basic Text Editor/IDE:

Choose a text editor or integrated development environment (IDE) to write your code.

Some popular options include Visual Studio Code, Sublime Text, and Atom.

7. Web Hosting and Domain Basics:

Understand the concepts of web hosting and domain names.

Learn how to upload your website to a web server.

8. Introduction to Front-End Development Frameworks:

Explore popular front-end libraries and frameworks like Bootstrap and jQuery.

Understand their advantages and when to use them.

9. Introduction to Back-End Development:

Learn about back-end development languages like Node.js, Python, or Ruby.

Understand how back-end servers work and interact with databases.

10. Databases and SQL:

- Get acquainted with databases and structured query language (SQL).

- Learn how to create, read, update, and delete data in a database.

11. Web Development Tools and DevOps:

- Familiarize yourself with developer tools for debugging and testing.

- Explore basic DevOps concepts like continuous integration and deployment (CI/CD).

12. Practice, Projects, and Portfolio:

- Build small projects to apply what you’ve learned.

- Create a portfolio website to showcase your work.

- Contribute to open-source projects or collaborate with others.

13. Advanced Topics (As you progress):

- Dive deeper into JavaScript with frameworks like React, Angular, or Vue.js.

Explore back-end frameworks like Express.js (Node.js), Django (Python), or Ruby on Rails.

Learn about APIs, authentication, and security best practices.

Web development is an ever-evolving field, so stay curious and keep learning.Follow blogs, podcasts, and industry news to stay up-to-date with new technologies and trends.Remember, web development is a journey that requires patience and consistent practice. Don’t be discouraged by challenges along the way; they are opportunities to learn and grow as a developer. Happy coding!

[uiuxcafe]

Is your website accessible? (Beginners Guide)

Making your website as accessible as possible is not just a legal or ethical requirement, it’s also a practical concern—allowing everyone to benefit from your content. Here are four areas to review.

[systango-technologies-ltd]

Boost Your ROI: Actionable Strategies for Enterprise Application Development in 2024

Explore actionable strategies for enterprise application development in our latest blog, designed to elevate your ROI in 2024. Discover key insights into leveraging cutting-edge technologies, optimizing development processes, and enhancing user experiences.

Uncover practical approaches to streamline your enterprise app development journey and maximize returns on your investment. Stay ahead in the competitive landscape with these proven strategies tailored for success.

#EnterpriseAppDevelopment #TechnologyTrends #ROI2024

[softvisioncorp]

How to Build a Website and Application from Scratch

In the modern digital landscape, a professionally crafted website or application is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity for businesses, brands, and startups alike. Whether you're a solo entrepreneur or managing a growing company, understanding how to build a website and application from the ground up can empower you to bring your ideas to life and reach a wider audience.

Define Your Goals and Requirements

Before you start designing or coding anything, it's critical to clearly define your objectives:

What is the purpose of the website/app?

Who is your target audience?

What features are necessary?

Will it be a static website, dynamic platform, or full-stack web app?

Pro Tip: Create wireframes or sketches of the user interface (UI) to visualize your idea.

2) Choose the Right Tech Stack

Depending on your project, select the technologies that suit your needs. Some popular stacks include:

Frontend: HTML, CSS, JavaScript (React, Vue, Angular)

Backend: Node.js, Python (Django), PHP, Ruby on Rails

Database: MySQL, MongoDB, PostgreSQL

Mobile App: Flutter, React Native, Swift (iOS), Kotlin (Android)

Tip: For startups, using open-source tools or low-code platforms can reduce costs and time.

3) Register a Domain and Choose Hosting

Your domain name is your digital identity. Choose a name that reflects your brand, and register it through a reliable provider like GoDaddy, Namecheap, or Google Domains.

For hosting, consider:

Shared Hosting for small websites

Cloud Hosting (like AWS, Azure, DigitalOcean) for scalable applications

4) Design the User Interface (UI/UX)

An intuitive, mobile-responsive design increases user engagement and conversions. Tools like Figma, Adobe XD, or Sketch can help you prototype the layout before development.

5) Begin Development: Frontend and Backend

Start with building the frontend using frameworks like React or Vue.

Develop the backend API to handle business logic, databases, and server interactions.

Ensure proper data validation, security, and error handling.

6) Integrate Features & APIs

Add features like:

User registration/login

Contact forms

Payment gateways (Stripe, Razorpay, PayPal)

Third-party APIs (Maps, SMS, etc.)

7) Test Thoroughly Before Launch Conduct:

Unit Testing (for individual components)

Integration Testing (for connected modules)

User Acceptance Testing (UAT) to get feedback from real users

Tools: Jest, Selenium, Cypress, Postman

8) Launch and Monitor

Deploy your app/website using tools like:

CI/CD pipelines (GitHub Actions, Jenkins)

Monitoring tools (Google Analytics, Hotjar, Sentry)

Announce your launch across social media, email lists, and digital forums.

9) Market Your Product

Use SEO, content marketing, paid ads, and social media to promote your new platform. Don’t forget to collect user feedback and iterate.

Conclusion

Building a website or application Development from scratch may sound complex, but with the right plan, tools, and mindset, it becomes a structured process. Whether you choose to DIY or hire expert developers, understanding each phase helps ensure a smooth journey from idea to launch.

[aphonicsolutions]

The Rise of Progressive Web Apps (PWAs): A Developer’s Guide

In this blog, we discuss about what are Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) & shares Step-by-step Guide to Progressive Web App Development. If Want to get the best of mobile and web technologies leveraging PWA? Aphonic Solutions is the best web development company in Rajkot. Call us!

[nexiotechie]

A Step-by-Step Guide to Building a Web App in 2025

The advancements in technology by 2025 have made web app development more streamlined and efficient than ever. However, creating a high-performing web app still requires careful planning, the right tools, and a clear vision. This guide covers everything you need to know, from the basics to advanced strategies, for building a web app.

What Is a Web App?

A web application is a program that operates within a web browser. Unlike traditional software that needs to be installed, web apps can be accessed via a simple URL, making them incredibly convenient.

From simple tools like online calculators to complex platforms like e-commerce sites and social networks, web apps are versatile and widely used by businesses for their seamless communication between users and servers.

Is Web App Development Easy?

Thanks to modern frameworks and tools, building web apps has become more accessible compared to a decade ago. However, the complexity depends on your goals. Simple apps are relatively easy to create, but larger, feature-rich applications demand more effort, expertise, and planning.

Custom web app development is a popular choice for businesses as it ensures tailored solutions that align perfectly with their requirements.

Key Requirements for Building a Web App

Before diving into development, ensure you have these essentials:

A Clear Vision: Know your app's purpose, target audience, and the problems it will solve.

Skilled Team: If you're not a developer, you'll need experts like programmers, UI/UX designers, and project managers.

Budget: Plan for costs, including development, design, and any market-specific needs.

Technology Stack: Choose the tools, frameworks, and databases best suited for your project.

Having these foundations in place will set you up for a smoother development process.

Steps to Create a Web App

Developing a web app involves several key phases:

Ideation: Define your app’s purpose and research your target audience and competitors.

Planning and Design: Create wireframes and mockups to outline the user journey and interface design.

Development: Write code for both front-end and back-end, integrate APIs, and manage databases.

Testing: Identify and fix glitches, optimize loading times, and ensure cross-browser compatibility.

Launch and Maintenance: Deploy your app, market it to your audience, and regularly update it with improvements.

These steps ensure a structured approach, resulting in a reliable and user-friendly product.

Types of Web Applications

Understanding the type of web app you need is crucial:

Static Web Apps: Best for simple, informational content.

Dynamic Web Apps: Ideal for e-commerce, social media, and interactive platforms.

Progressive Web Apps (PWAs): Accessible via browsers but can also be installed like a native app.

Choosing the right type helps streamline your development process.

Stages of Web App Development

Web app development typically involves these stages:

Requirement Gathering: Define objectives and features.

Design and Prototyping: Visualize the app’s structure and user experience.

Development and Testing: Build and refine the app to ensure quality.

Deployment: Launch the app and monitor its performance in real-world conditions.

Following these stages helps deliver a product that meets expectations.

Why Choose Web Apps Over Mobile Apps?

Web apps have several distinct advantages:

Cross-Platform Accessibility: They work seamlessly across devices without needing separate builds.

Cost-Effectiveness: A single web app is more economical to develop than multiple native apps.

Ease of Updates: Users access the latest version instantly, without manual downloads.

How Can Web Apps Benefit Enterprises?

For businesses, web apps offer:

Enhanced Efficiency: Automate processes and reduce manual effort.

Scalability: Easily expand as your business grows.

Global Reach: Serve clients worldwide through a browser-based platform.

These benefits make web apps a valuable investment for enterprises aiming to boost productivity and reach new markets.

By following this guide, you can confidently start building a web app in 2025. Whether you're creating a simple tool or a robust enterprise solution, understanding the basics is essential. For tailored web app development, consider consulting a professional partner today!

[tek-connect]

Custom Web Application Development: A Complete Guide

In the digital era, where every business is striving for a competitive edge, custom web applications have emerged as invaluable assets. These tailor-made solutions cater precisely to the unique needs of organizations, offering flexibility, scalability, and efficiency. However, navigating the realm of custom web application development can be daunting without a comprehensive understanding of the process, best practices, and emerging trends. In this guide, we'll provide you with everything you need to know to embark on your custom web application development journey confidently. Read more...

[contentwritings-posts]

[digitalsvibes]

What is coding for kids

[pov-amna]

📚 Just dropped a fresh blog post. Dive in and let's chat about all things knowledge! https://www.arhamsoft.com/blog/2023/10/18/mobile-apps-vs-web-apps-what-suits-your-business-needs/

[csharptek-blog]

https://csharptek.com/blogs/web-app-development-process-explained

[naileadevoras]

* taps mic * is this thing on ? hi pookies ! it's the week before christmas & today , i'm presenting to you all a list of different occupations for your muses . i've categorized them based on alphabetical order for a neater look & it'll be easier for you all to read / browse through . i hope you find this masterlist helpful !

a like + reblog would be greatly appreciated . happy holidays !

🎱 𝑨 - 𝑯 .

accountant

activist

actor / actress

aesthetician

animator

apartment flipper

art critique

artist

author

babysitter

baker

bank teller

barista

bartender

bellhop

bike messenger

body builder

body guard

book keeper

bookstore owner

bouncer

cake decorator

camp counselor

cars salesman

casino manager

casting director

chef

civic planner

comedian

computer engineer

concert promoter

construction worker

dentist

dermatologist

dietitian

doctor

disk jockey

diver

driver [ uber , lyft , private ]

emergency medical technician

entrepreneur

etsy shop owner

fast food employee

figure skater

firefighter

financial analyst

fisherman

florist

food deliverer [ postmates , uber eats , etc ]

food critic

former child star

former miss universe

funeral director

game developer

guidance counselor

hair dresser

hair stylist

high school teacher

🎱 𝑰 - 𝑸 .

influencer

interior decorator

investor

janitor

journalist

judge

kindergarten teacher

lab assistant [ biology / chemistry lab ]

lifeguard

line cook

maid

make up artist

manager

marine biologist

marriage / family therapist

massage therapist

matchmaker

mechanical engineer

mobile app developer

mortician

motorcycle mechanic

nail technician

nurse practitioner

nursing professor

obstetrician

pageant queen

physiotherapist

piercer

pilot for commercial airlines

plastic surgeon

police officer

personal stylist

private attorney

private chef

professional athlete [ football , basketball , soccer ]

professional boxer

professional chess player

professional esports player

professional mermaid

professional photographer

professor

programmer

public relations

quality control inspector

🎱 𝑹 - 𝒁 .

real estate agent

receptionist

relationship counselor

respiratory therapist

retail employee

sales person

set designer / illustrator

singer

small business owner

socialite

social media curator

social media intern

song - writer

sports agent

stunt double

tattoo artist

teacher's assistant

tour guide

tour manager

translator

travel writer [ journalist ]

twitch streamer

ultrasound technologist

veterinarian / vet assistant

waiter / waitress

web art director

yoga instructor

zoologist

[cueloki]

Midgard wide web: TBR

Loki gets on the internet and makes quite a few discoveries in the process.

Wordcount: 2372

Pairing: Loki x f!reader

Warnings: 18+ MDNI, Loki the explorer; Loki discovers social media and smut, unsupervised use of internet, credit card fraud (sorry)

A/N: I really want that book with the pretty illustrations. | divider credit: firefly-graphics

Loki wasn’t someone who particularly wanted to develop mortal habits. Knowing about them was one thing, picking them up himself was another.

The only problem was he fell in love with a mortal and now he wanted to understand the weird things humans do, to understand you; your peculiar humor and quirks. 

He wanted to show you he cared about the stuff you cared about, no matter its level of importance. 

In an effort to do just that he asked if you could help him sign up for social media. 

You were a little surprised. Loki never showed anything but disdain for socials before but you figured he simply caved to curiosity so you guided him through setting up accounts.

First he explored instagram and your dms filled with countless cute animal videos and funny posts. Next he discovered the wonders of stan twitter where people begged him for a tiny bit of his attention on the daily. His little ‘Daggerians’ as he named them wanted to know more about him. They tweeted questions at him left and right and it was all very innocent at first…

“Darling, someone asked me what my favorite ‘me me’ is. What's a ‘me me’?” “A me-me? … OH, you mean a meme!”

Until it wasn’t. 

“Darling, I have ligma?” “Loki, I am not falling for that.” “Pardon?” “I know it's a trick.” “I don't understand. Somebody told me I have ligma.” “Who told you that?” “A Daggerian! What’s ligma?” “Oh baby, I hate to be the one to tell you but… It's a set up, they want you to ask what ligma is so they can say ligma balls.” “...” “As in lick my–” “Yes, I get it!” “...” “...” “...” “That is no way to talk to a god!”

That was the day Loki learned about the block button and some poor unfortunate soul got the privilege of being the first on his blocklist. 

Loki didn't take kindly to tricking attempts, especially unoriginal ones. Unfortunately his fans were just as mischievous as him so they tried their luck in pranking the god. You had to stifle your laughter as he scarcely avoided a taste of his own medicine…

The questions about internet culture kept popping up and even though you told him a lot of what he asked about would be answered with a quick google search, he insisted he preferred your explanations.

Eventually the novelty of the ‘stupid bird app’ wore off but most of all Loki tired of stan twitter’s shenanigans. Needing a break, he decided to sign up on tiktok and hide out there. 

That very first day after hours of scrolling he ended up watching a book review of the latest book everyone on booktok was obsessed with.

“This is quite explicit in its topics.” He hummed. It was full of taboos, violence but most importantly, it was packaged with a hefty set of steamy scenes. You would know. You had read it.

“It's a spicy dark romance book.” You explained. You were curled up on the couch with him, sketching in your journal and vaguely paying attention to what he was watching.

He paused the video. “A spicy book?” He narrowed his eyes as his fingers kept idly tracing your upper thigh.

“Mhm, like you know… it has smut.” Your hand stilled as you stopped drawing and peered up at him.

“What’s a smut?” His face scrunched.

“Not a smut, just smut. It's sex scenes.” You chuckled at his evident confusion. You weren't used to Loki being the one out of his element, it was usually you.

“Do you read those kinds of novels?” He had asked.

“Sometimes.”

And that's what kickstarted it all. In the coming weeks your boyfriend was catching up with all the books booktok raved about, consuming smut like it was the very air he needed to breathe.  

“Darling, this is awfully kinky. We don’t have anything like it on Asgard.” He commented while reading the first one on your kindle. 

After getting through it he decided you ‘needed to start getting physical copies again to save your eyesight and get the proper reading experience’ but really you knew it was because he preferred to read that way and as you agreed – for his sake – all hell broke loose.

Three months later he barged in while you were getting some work done on your computer. By this point Loki had built his own dark romance book collection, filling up multiple shelves and it was anything but innocent. 

He roped you in as well.

“I think you'll enjoy this one,” He smirked as he placed another book he finished onto the desk of your home office. “Enemies to lovers and it has touch her and die.”

“I can't believe you pitch me books with tropes now. Booktok owes me compensation for teaching you these things. You've been corrupted!” You teased him gleefully. He leaned onto the desk with his forearms, cocking an amused brow. You picked up the book and examined the pretty cover with the gold foil details. As you turned it around you noticed the sprayed edges.

“Special edition? It's pretty. Where did you get it?” You mused before your eyes flicked up to his.

“Last month I signed us up for a subscription box… or… a few… Under your name. This was the first one that arrived.” He explained.

You hummed, continuing to admire the book’s design until his words sank in and your head shot up. 

“Wait, did you say a few? On my card?” Your eyes widened.

“Of course not. Stark’s.” He smiled proudly.

“That explains it.” You nodded, worry melting away slightly. “Should I even ask how you have his credit card information? Probably not right?” You pursed your lips.

He shook his head. “Best not to make you an accomplice, darling.” 

You snorted. “Okay well, thanks, my love,” You reached to put the book away but he stopped you.

“No, this one should skip to the top of your TBR. Open it.” He urged fervently.

So you did. Only to discover a breathtaking illustration of a woman, her body covered by nothing but Rapunzel-long hair. She was riding on a white horse while a raven haired man was depicted walking beside her. From far away he kind of resembled Loki even down to his clothes.

“I think he's gorgeous, don't you?” Loki grinned smugly. “She as well… Reminds me of you.”

“Does she now?” You asked dully, presenting a facade of disinterest though you knew he saw right through you.

“If you take off your clothes right now she does.” He shot you a mischievous wink.

You laughed. Your heart still skipped a beat even when his flirting was silly.

“Get out of my office you dork, I have work to do!”

Loki straightened and raised up his hands in defense. “Alright alright, what do you want for lunch?” He smiled softly.

You spun in your chair and placed the book onto the growing stack behind you. 

“Surprise me,” you returned his smile.

As much as you tried you couldn’t keep up with the pace Loki read books. 

That didn't seem to matter to him at all. With his impeccable memory as soon as you finished one he'd be eager to discuss it with you. You'd be lying if you said you weren’t happy to share this with him even if it meant giving up the comfort of your kindle.

What you could never foresee was how engaged Loki became with booktok during all of this. He was in the depths of it then one day his algorithm spiraled onto the fandom side of tiktok…

“Darling, what's tumblr?” He asked.

You paused typing on your laptop and slowly exited out of your fanfic wip document, peeking over the screen at him from your side of the couch. 

“Blogging site, has a lot of art, fandom communities… Why?”

“Seems like something you’d enjoy. Are you on it?” He tilted his head curiously.

You hadn't exactly shared that part of your life with him yet but you couldn’t in good conscience lie about it. You wanted to be honest in your relationship. And it's not like he would know what was on your tumblr.

“Yeah, yeah… I'm on it.” You admitted. And then came the question that made you wish the ground swallowed you whole.

“May I see your account?” He was completely serious too.

“Oh baby, it's such an old blog, it'd be cringy to look at.” You tried to divert Loki from his idea.

It wasn’t solely about cringe. Fact of the matter was you’d have no problem with him seeing your blog if it wasn’t also littered with hundreds thousands of Loki fics you had reblogged back in the day before you two got together… when you had a hopeless crush on him and were indulging. Which was embarrassing enough on its own. But that wasn't the worst of it… 

The truth was you had found yourself writing your own Loki fanfic pieces. If you could call it fanfic. The stuff you had posted was borderline real event recounts and you had no idea how he'd react to that.

“Alright, my love.” He shrugged and dropped the topic suspiciously fast, going back to tapping on his phone. 

Relieved that he didn't press you about it, you didn’t question it at the time and simply thought that was that. And everything was fine…

Until the next day when he barged into your office in the middle of your work day. 

“There's smut of me on tumblr! So much of it!” He exclaimed in delight.

Guess cat’s out of the bag.

You cleared your throat and looked up from your screen. “That's nice, sweetheart,” You smiled. “But I have a meeting in–”

“No, darling, you have to see this, it's impressively accurate!” He crossed the room in quick strides and handed you his phone. 

He leaned against your desk as he waited patiently. You watched how his fingers tightened around the desk’s border then finally scanned the post on his phone. Immediately you recognized it as one of your own. You tried to push down your internal panic as you glanced up at him. His expression was blank.

Does he know? Either way you probably have to come clean.

You bit your bottom lip and discarded his phone on the desk. 

“Is this a joke?” You searched his face for any sign of what he was thinking. He cocked an eyebrow. You hesitated, unable to read how much he already knew but then you gave in, confession leaving your lips, coaxed out by his silence.

“That's my blog. How did you find it?” 

He crossed his arms and smirked. “And here I was so sure I would have to extract the truth out of you because you wouldn't admit it. My darling, pray tell, what other secrets do you keep from me?” His eyes twinkled with mirth.

You rolled your eyes and got up. “I told you I didn't want you to look at it.” You wrinkled your nose. You knew this would be revealed at some point so you weren’t necessarily mad, just blindsided.

“I wasn’t searching for it, I happened to stumble onto it.” His hands landed on your hips, pulling you closer. Your arms snaked around his neck without hesitation as you relaxed into his touch. 

“Happened to? How'd you know it was mine, Mischief?” You narrowed your eyes at him skeptically.

“Oh I don't know, maybe the fact that the writing’s akin to a page out of your journal or perhaps the fact you made your username our inside joke?” He laughed.

Your cheeks warmed up. Okay, in hindsight, you understood how it would be obvious to him.

“Stop reading my journal, nosy god–”

“If you didn’t want me to know you’d hide it better–”

You quirked a threatening eyebrow at him. 

“Apologies my darling, continue.” He smiled sheepishly.

“I’ll take it down, the smut.” You declared offhandedly. The last thing you wanted to do was make him uncomfortable because you’d splashed your intimate details onto the hellsite.

“You will do no such thing.” His eyes darkened as his fingers dug into your skin possessively. 

Your eyebrows pulled together in confusion. 

“You like it that people know what we do together, what your god does to you, you get off on it, don't you?” His voice lowered.

You snickered, ignoring the heat that shot to your core. “Okay Mr. Dark romance, I see you've learned some new tricks.” 

He lifted you onto the desk, positioning himself between your legs. “Maybe you'll even get to write about them on your blog.” He whispered huskily in your ear.

to be continued…?

→          BONUS

ONE MONTH AGO

“How the hell– This is completely busted.” Tony mumbled to himself as he examined the malfunctioning part of his new invention. “Jarvis, order a new one. Product number…” He squinted at the almost too small font. “6L0R10VS” He read off the sequence.

“On it sir.”

Minutes passed and Tony’s lab filled with a haunting silence, he tapped his foot and looked to the ceiling as if talking to god himself and not just Jarvis. 

“What’s taking so long?” He complained.

“I’m sorry sir, it looks like their website doesn’t let artificial intelligence access it.” The synthetic voice announced.

“You’ve gotta be kidding me.” Tony groaned, rubbing his forehead in frustration.

He walked over to his desk and slumped into his chair that let out a weary squeak from years of abuse. “Gotta do everything myself,” He grumbled to himself as he pulled up the website and looked for a new part. If Jarvis had feelings he might have been offended at the notion. 

Tony tried to get it over with as fast as possible so he could get back to tinkering soon. He rolled his eyes when he tried to check out his cart and the site he used regularly didn't have his information saved anymore.

With a sigh he reached into the back pocket of his jeans, pulled out his wallet and got to entering his credit card details.

Loki smirked in the shadows. This will set him up nicely for those book box subscriptions.

[miyamiwu]

Essential Elements of an Unlimited/Infinite Flow Story

As someone attempting to write my own Unli Flow, I thought I’d take note of the different elements so I can have a guide I can always refer back to.

I’ve explained what Unli Flow means many times before, but in case you missed it: Unlimited/Infinite Flow is a genre in Chinese web novels that feature characters entering multiple “instances” where they have to complete a challenge and/or solve a mystery. Failure in doing so would lead to consequences, most often death.

There’s also this definition by AshuraYami from the NovelUpdates Forum:

Unlimited Flow/Infinite Flow is a genre originating from the CN novel Terror Infinity. The genre mainly revolves on world hopping involving fictional works (anime, comics, movies, games and novels) and/or original worlds created by the author. Infinite Flow, as it’s ‘infinite’ namesake suggests, can accommodate all other genres, be it fantasy, sci-fi, horror, romance, etc. Representative works are Terror Infinity (origin of genre), Reincarnation Paradise (most chapters and word count), The Ultimate Evolution (promoter of data flow, an infinite flow derivative that is more game-like litRPG) and Thriller Paradise (most famous horror infinite flow).

With the definition out of the way, let’s goooo

[This post will also serve as a rec list of sorts, since I’ll be giving examples of each element from different danmei novels.]

----------

1. The Authority

The entity/system in charge of the Unlimited Flow system as a whole. Most stories just chalk it up to the Unli Flow being some kind of otherworldly being/extremely advanced AI that just likes to mess with people.

Examples of The Authority

(based on what I remember, at least… Also, beware of spoilers)

The Earth is Online: The Universe

Mist: I forgot what it’s called, but that high tech system in charge of all the Time Traveling stuff...

High Energy QR Code: That black and white cube thing

Surprise! The Supposed Talent Show was Actually—?!: … The TV station...

From left to right: Tang Mo from The Earth is Online and Wu Jin and Wei Shi from Surprise! The Supposed Talent Show was Actually—?!

[Spoilers End]

From having read numerous Unli Flow stories, I conclude that crucial to a great, not just good, Unli Flow story is a well-defined Authority. The explanation behind the Authority’s existence and motives is the foundation to the entire story.

You can have a very fancy building (cool instances, well-developed characters, an exciting enemies to lovers couple, etc.), but if the foundation is flimsy, the building’s value would plummet in your eyes. You can still appreciate the building, of course, but you will never be content with it.

Examples of some novels that are good in almost everything else except The Authority (in my opinion): [spoilery]

Supernatural Movie Actor App: It was too profound with not enough groundwork laid for it, resulting in The Authority feeling detached from the main story.

I Upended Yet Another Campus Urban Legend: The Authority was not exactly bad; it was just inadequate. The justification of the Unli Flow existing became unconvincing because of this.

Escape the Infinite Chamber: THE AUTHORITY IS SO FUCKING RIDICULOUS THAT IT’S ABYSMAL. And the entire thing was explained in just one scene and from one extra??? SO MUCH PAIN AND SUFFERING AND THAT’S THE ONLY EXPLANATION WE GET??? HORRENDOUS!

[Spoilers End]

From left to right: Book covers of I Upended Yet Another Campus Urban Legend and Supernatural Movie Actor App

2. Instances

Also known as “copy.” The other world/dimension where players have to face the different challenges.

The Authority may be the foundation, but the Instances are the defining aspect of the Unlimited Flow.

A lot of novels, however, are quite perfunctory when it comes to instances, just using it to further the main couple or as a mere stepping stone to the overarching plot. Or, if they’re not being perfunctory, then the Instances are just plain boring.

The first instance, especially, tend to be the most boring. Authors often use this to dump all the information about how their unli flow works. This usually gets better by the time the 2nd or 3rd instance comes around....

Upon successful completion of an Instance, players will then be rewarded with either points, special abilities, magic items, etc.

Examples of novels with GREAT instances (based on logic, thrill, horror, etc. Again, all in my own opinion):

I Became a God in a Horror Game: The horror is present all throughout. I can still remember the fear I felt while reading about the statues in the first Instance. Each instance/arc also emotionally impacts you, an effect that most Unli Flow writers don’t really aim for or just generally tend to fail at. (This is also my favorite unli flow novel at the moment~)

The Earth is Online: (same author as Fourth Perspective, which I’ve posted a lot about before) What I love about Mo Chen Huan, the author, is how they write intelligent MC’s but without making them seem too OP. And this is because she actually shows us the MC’s thought process, inviting us to think along with them and figure out how to solve the challenge, and not just make her characters say “aha!” This is what makes the Instances in TEIO great and memorable.

High Energy QR Code: The story could make use of more showing than telling, but I actually love the Instances in this novel. You know how good stories are often described as a well-made tapestry in that every little thread contributes to the big beautiful picture? That’s how each Instance reads in this novel. (Absolutely love the Instance about the town where everybody lies.)

Fu Wendou, the male lead of The Earth is Online

3. NPCs

A gaming term which stands for “Non-Player Character.” Refers to characters who live within Instances and act in such ways that further the plot or challenge presented by the Instance. They may go against players or assist them. May or may not have a will of their own.

Examples of NPCs:

Xu Beijin, the protagonist of Being an Extra Actor in an Escape Game

Lu Chu, the protagonist of Insider.

The iconic Mosaic from The Earth is Online

The male leads from Escape the Infinite Chamber, I Became a God in a Horror Game, Killing God with Junk Cards, etc. (Most danmei ML are special!NPCs 😩)

From left to right: Book covers of Being an Extra Actor in an Escape Game and Killing God with Junk Cards

4. Player Hall

A space outside of instances where different players can gather and exchange information. Most of the time, this is in a space still separate from the real world. Players are often prohibited from using their powers in this space.

In some novels, Players have no choice but to live here, completely cutting them off from the real world. In this case, accommodation quality will depend on the Player’s level or points.

5. Personal System

The Personal System issues challenges to the player and keeps track of their current attributes, physical and mental states, etc.. It also calculates rewards and punishments for the player. First and foremost in service to The Authority. (If they aren’t, then they’re most likely the Love Interest in disguise. If not, the Player had somehow swayed it to their side).

6. System Store

The points earned from the different Instances serve as the Players’ currency, and they can use it to buy things from the System Store. The Store may sell weapons, medicine, magical items, or even special abilities. Basically, any item that can help the Player during Instances. Of course, it may also sell non-magical items, like food and everyday items, at a much lower price than special items.

7. Player’s Goal/Wish

In some novels, the Goal is simply to clear all the Instances and leave the Unli Flow for good. But in others, the Unli Flow allows Players to exchange their points for a Wish. The more difficult the Wish, the more points are needed, and the more Instances are needed to be cleared.

Examples of a Goal/Wish:

Supernatural Movie Actor App: Xie Chi wants to give his second personality a body of his own.

I Became a God in a Horror Game: If I’m remembering it correctly… Bai Liu just wants to have lots of money.

I Upended Yet Another Campus Urban Legend: Lin Yi wants to learn the truth about his parents.

Thriller Tour Group: Wei Xun wants to find the truth about his family’s disappearance… and his Wish is to uhh… feel pain?

After the Little Crybaby Enters the Nightmare Cycle: Chi Nan’s Wish is to regain his vision, stop crying and get his memories back.

Death Spiral: To uhh… figure out what the voice in the Elevator is trying to tell them? To regain their memories? [The actual Wish is a big spoiler, so I won’t mention it here.]

From left to right: Book covers of After the Little Crybaby Enters the Nightmare Cycle, Thriller Tour Group, and Death Spiral

Aaaand there you have it! I was hoping to list 10 elements, but I can only think up to 7 😔

Although I said this post is a rec list of sorts, the quality of the novels I mentioned actually varies. I’m just listing whatever novel would be good as an example (and also what I can remember and have more or less completed, since many of the Unli Flow novels I’m reading are currently on-hold).