Learning React Native in 2025: A Complete Beginner's Guide

Apr 1, 2023 ⋅ Modified: May 23, 2025 ⋅ 5 min read

Bilal Arslan

Introduction

Are you planning to learn React Native and looking for the best way to start in 2025? You're in the right place! In this updated blog post, I’ll walk you through a simple step-by-step guide to help you learn React Native from scratch.

React Native is a powerful and popular framework for building mobile apps that work on both iOS and Android using JavaScript and React. It allows developers to create high-performance apps using one codebase.

Since React Native is based on React, which is used for web development, having a good understanding of React and basic JavaScript is very helpful. Many web developers find it easier to learn React Native for this reason.

But don’t worry if you are new to web development. I’ve collected some great beginner-friendly resources to help you get started.

Step 1: Learn JavaScript and React Basics

Before learning React Native, you need a strong foundation in JavaScript and React. Start with these key concepts:

  • Variables
  • Functions
  • Loops
  • Arrays and Objects
  • DOM (Document Object Model)
  • React components
  • State and props
  • Virtual DOM

Helpful Resources:

Step 2: Learn React Native Fundamentals

Now it’s time to learn React Native basics, such as:

  • JSX syntax
  • Creating reusable components
  • Styling with Flexbox
  • Using functional and class components
  • Using built-in UI components (Text, View, Button, etc.)

Explore the React Native documentation and practice building small layouts.

Step 3: Use Online Courses and Tutorials

Online tutorials are one of the fastest ways to learn. Many courses are updated regularly and made by professionals. Some good platforms are Udemy, Coursera, and YouTube.

Step 4: Build Projects and Practice

The best way to learn is by doing. Build real projects to practice and apply what you’ve learned. Here are some beginner app ideas:

  • To-do List App
  • Currency Converter App
  • Notes App
  • Quiz App
  • Password Generator

These projects will help you:

  • Understand layout and navigation
  • Manage state
  • Handle user input
  • Work with APIs
  • Use third-party libraries

Step 5: Contribute to Open Source Projects

Working on open-source projects is a great way to improve your skills and connect with other developers. Visit GitHub and find beginner-friendly React Native repositories to contribute to. Look for issues labeled "good first issue."

Step 6: Use AI Tools to Learn Faster

In 2025, AI tools make learning much easier. Here are a few ways AI can help you learn React Native:

  • ChatGPT or Google Gemini: Ask questions, fix code, and get personalized explanations.
  • GitHub Copilot: Helps you write code faster by suggesting lines and functions.
  • AI code review tools: Give you instant feedback and help you follow best practices.
  • AI-powered video tutorials: Learn interactively with custom lessons that adjust to your level.

These tools save time and help you understand complex topics more clearly.

Do I need to learn React before React Native?

👉 Yes, because React Native is built on top of React. Knowing React will help you a lot.

Can I learn React Native without JavaScript?

👉 No. JavaScript is required to understand and use both React and React Native.

How long does it take to learn React Native if I already know React?

👉 If you know React, you can learn React Native in a few weeks. Most logic stays the same, but you'll need to learn mobile-specific components.

Should I learn Flutter or React Native?

👉 Both are good choices. If you already know JavaScript, start with React Native. Flutter uses Dart, so it may take more time if you're not familiar with it.

I personally chose React Native because I had experience in web development. It was faster for me to learn and build apps, and many companies like Facebook, Uber, and Shopify use it.

Conclusion

Learning React Native in 2025 is a smart move for beginners and developers looking to build mobile apps. Start with JavaScript and React, then dive into React Native. Use online courses, build projects, and try contributing to open-source. Don’t forget to explore AI tools to make your learning faster and easier.

🚀 Start coding today — the best way to learn is by doing!

Note: This article is NOT sponsored. All opinions are my own.