Need an simple idea to build a website for

I am currently a college student, majoring in website design and development. I believe I learned enough so far to start my own site. I am not really expecting to make money from this site but rather to gain experience and build a portfolio.

I just don't know what website to make. I need something that is not too complicated but it not too simple either since you don't really learn much from creating simple website. My writing skill is terrible so a news and review focus site might not be an option. and plz don't suggest a porn site. I don't want to go around saying the first successful website i created is a porn site.

 

I'll be the first to say what everyone else is going to say... What are you passionate about? What are your hobbies? If you do a site about something you're genuinely interested in, it will be much easier to work on the site. Sorry...That's the defacto answer to that question.

 

From what you have written, I would recommend that you create a website that compares the different content management systems out there, such as Wordpress, Joomla, Drupal, etc. Not only will you get experience building a website, but you'll also get experience working with the various content management systems that you'll most likely be using as a web developer once you're out of school.

You could start off simple with basic reviews of each of the CMS systems and talking about them from a user's perspective, such as how easy it is to use, ease of installation, etc and then once you have that you could go on to build a feature comparison tool that lets the user search for a CMS based on certain features they want. For instance, you might have a checkbox that says "automatic updates" and if the user checks it then only CMS systems with automatic updates are shown to the user.

I think a site like this would be a great showpiece for prospective employers and will also show them that you know about the various CMS systems out there in the world of web development.

 

Any way need some knowledge about html and simple coding.. should learn them too

 

Greetings!

If you are looking to use your skills later to earn, then I suggest you browse projects from various freelance websites. You take note of what type of websites are asked to be designed. List at least the top 5 most wanted types. From there, start creating the mock-up design first for each. Make sure that you have a well-documented .psd file for each mock-up design including a color guide. After that, work out each mock-up coding in html5 and css3 standard and if possible responsive. If you are not yet familiar with responsive web design, I suggest you learn it.

With all 5 designs done, you should have a great portfolio to be proud of. Put this portfolio online for easy reference. You may start looking for web design clients after this. Do take note how much time it takes you to finish the design. Research on how to price a web design project. Don't be tempted to offer your design service for cheap. If you believe you can create astounding websites, then price it accordingly. Be professional.

After you have done 3 successful paid web design projects, it is time to consider building your own business website. Ask your clients for a testimonial if you feel that they are truly satisfied and happy with the design. Ponder upon your business brand - name of business, tag-line, logo, and mascot (perhaps). Have your business card designed and printed. Also design your own letterhead for official business communication especially for local clients. Keep in mind about optimizing your website content for search engines too. To protect yourself, get a business license and if possible trademark your business with corresponding cool domain name.

Once you have established your business, get a business Paypal account to use with your payment transactions. You may also need a savings bank account to link with your Paypal account so that you can withdraw funds from your Paypal later. Once business is doing good and income stream is also doing good, get a credit card. You need it for your other online payments.

My last advise (if you allow me), is to always save something up. Every month, deduct a fix amount from your gross income. Set it aside or deposit it in a separate savings account. Don't touch it unless it is for emergency reasons. Continue saving up every month. Live with whatever amount is left after deducting a fixed amount for savings. For example, the fixed savings amount is $100. Then, if your gross income is $600, deduct $100 first to set it aside. Then, live with $500 remaining for your expenses, etc.

That's my two cents. God bless.