As a layout designer, my expertise lies in creating websites using platforms like Wordpress and MODx, without incorporating complex functionalities.

It is evident that website development is becoming more accessible with the emergence of builders like Tilda and Wix. Even Wordpress is now being used as a builder with tools like Elementor, Visual Composer, and WP Bakery. Consequently, even someone with basic computer skills can create a simple landing page using these builders, eliminating the need for a web studio. I have observed this trend from freelancing projects where the most common request is to create a one-page website, resulting in numerous responses from designers and SEO specialists.

Additionally, the popularity of Instagram has led many people to prefer it over traditional websites. I have even come across profiles resembling landing pages, offering services, prices, and contact information. One particular profile generates an average of 20 orders daily, showing the effectiveness of this alternative platform.

Considering these changes, I realized the need to adapt to current and future demands. This thought process prompted me to explore the following possibilities:

1. Expanding my knowledge of CMS platforms like Wordpress, MODX, Bitrix, and OpenCart. However, I see limited opportunities for myself in this area, mainly involving minor template modifications for low pay or working for a company with its own Bitrix-based online store.

2. Learning Python, PHP, PHP frameworks (Laravel, Symfony, Yii2), and MYSQL. With this skill set, I would be capable of developing complex web services and even have the potential to create my own social service similar to Avito or hh.ru. Furthermore, such expertise would make me employable at established companies like Avito or allow me to contribute to startup development.

3. Acquiring proficiency in JavaScript (JS) and JS frameworks. JS has become a versatile language capable of developing mobile applications (using React or Angular), desktop applications (using Electron.js) compatible with various operating systems, or complete web services that interact with networks. A solid JS background opens up numerous possibilities.

While I have basic knowledge of JS, including loops, functions, conditional operators, and string and number manipulation, I only have limited familiarity with working with the DOM tree. To improve my skills, I am currently studying from Ilya Kantor's textbook, which consists of around 100 lessons in one chapter. Considering an average of 2 hours of study per lesson, along with note-taking and problem-solving, it would take me approximately 2-2.5 months to go through the basics. And that's just the first part; there are also two more parts covering different aspects of JS, like working with the DOM tree and AJAX. It seems overwhelming, and I fear spending my entire life on this endeavor.

Regarding jQuery, since Vue.js and similar frameworks exist, I am unsure if it is necessary to learn it now.

As for JS frameworks, although I lack in-depth knowledge, I have enough material to start understanding them. However, I came across discussions on forums asking, "Where should one begin learning React?," and the general response suggests first mastering the fundamentals of JS before diving into frameworks.

Considering all these factors, which direction do you think I should prioritize to maximize future prospects? I am interested in all of these areas but cannot study everything simultaneously.

Given your current expertise and the trends you have observed, it seems like expanding your knowledge of JavaScript (JS) and JS frameworks would be a good starting point.

JS is a versatile language and mastering it will open up numerous possibilities for web development, including mobile applications, desktop applications, and complete web services. Since you already have basic knowledge of JS, focusing on improving your skills in this area would be a logical progression. Ilya Kantor's textbook seems like a comprehensive resource, and going through the basics and working with the DOM tree will provide you with a solid foundation.

While jQuery is still widely used, considering newer frameworks like Vue.js and others may be a good idea, as they offer more modern and efficient ways to develop web applications. However, having a basic understanding of jQuery can still be beneficial as you may come across projects or codebases that utilize it.

As for learning JS frameworks like React, it is generally recommended to have a good grasp of the fundamentals of JS before diving into frameworks. So, prioritizing your JS learning first will set you up for success when you decide to explore frameworks.

Overall, focusing on improving your proficiency in JavaScript and then gradually transitioning into JS frameworks like React or Angular seems like a reasonable course of action to maximize your future prospects. Remember to take your time and enjoy the learning process—it's a journey that will continually evolve and open up new opportunities for you.

If you're looking for further guidance, here are a few additional considerations to help you prioritize your learning and maximize future prospects:

1. Evaluate the job market: Research the current demand for the skills you are interested in acquiring. Look at job postings, industry trends, and the requirements of companies you would like to work for. This will give you a better understanding of which skills are in high demand and can help inform your decision.

2. Seek out projects: Consider taking on small projects or personal side projects that allow you to apply and practice the skills you are learning. This hands-on experience will not only enhance your learning but also provide tangible examples to showcase your abilities to potential clients or employers.

3. Networking and collaboration: Engage with other professionals in the web development community. Attend conferences, participate in online forums, and join local meetups to expand your network. Collaborating with others can expose you to different perspectives, help you stay updated on industry trends, and even lead to new opportunities.

4. Stay adaptable: The tech industry is constantly evolving, and new technologies emerge regularly. While it's important to focus on specific areas for skill development, staying adaptable and open to learning new tools and technologies will keep you versatile and relevant in the long run.

You have a cluttered mind due to a lack of problem-solving experience.

1. The first point is derived from the second one. If you understand point 2, then you can quickly learn point 1. Being proficient in only one Content Management System (CMS) is equivalent to knowing how to use only one type of nail, even though other types may be required for different tasks.

You need to grasp the distinction between tasks and tools. Everything you mentioned are tools for solving problems. Which tools should you study? The ones that align with the tasks you are tackling. What tasks are you currently solving or aiming to solve? This is the fundamental question.

Pay no attention to the duration of lessons. No one starts working only after spending a certain number of hours on theory and practice. You acquire the basics, start working on real tasks, and gradually learn (without compromising the client's time and money, of course).

This point is an extension of the previous one. Have you taken a look at jQuery? Have you tried using it? With knowledge of JavaScript, you can familiarize yourself with jQuery in just three or four projects. You simply have to take the leap and start, without thinking, "There are 300 hours of jQuery lessons; it must be too difficult for me." Just take action and begin.

Tasks always vary, so the selection of tools does too. That's why you need to be familiar with both jQuery and Vue.js, not just one. Are you going to build Single Page Applications (SPA) all the time? Or will someone ask you to create a simple calculator that can be easily modified later? Will you use Vue.js, which the client may not be familiar with? Or will you rely on jQuery or plain JavaScript? The answer is obvious.

Now let me share my personal experience:
1. I started with HTML + CSS.
2. I began learning JavaScript and jQuery simultaneously (which I do not recommend; it's better to learn JavaScript first, then jQuery).
3. With the experience I gained, I was able to learn Vue.js effectively on a complex project.
4. Since I occasionally work with PHP, I can easily adapt to Laravel. If there's a problem, I know where to look and how to solve it, and I could complete a project lasting a month in just one go.

All these frameworks and technologies are written in languages that you should logically already know. Therefore, you can overcome your fear of any framework in just one week. In one month, you can write something meaningful using it.

Hence, you should:
1. Decide on your field of work. Based on your question, you have a choice between front-end development (JavaScript + frameworks) and back-end development (Python, PHP + frameworks).
2. Look up the roadmap for either front-end or back-end development (depending on your choice).
3. Keep moving forward and don't be afraid.
4. You still have plenty of time to live a happy and fulfilling life.

P.S. The speed at which I learned frameworks is solely based on my own experience. Some people may learn faster, while others may learn slower. Just to clarify, I feel comfortable working with different frameworks, but I am not an extremely seasoned developer.

P.P.S. In response to the main question, "Which areas of web development should I master in the future?" - in the future, you should strive to become a developer who has experience in related fields, possesses knowledge that helps solve specific tasks (the more complex the tasks, the more valuable you become), and embraces continuous learning. As technology advances, tasks and their complexity change, new tools emerge, and so on. Additionally, don't forget that programming extends beyond website and application development. There are other interesting task areas outside of web development as well.

In the future, it will suffice to have a normal understanding of any language. That is, to grasp the idea that programming involves elements like variables, loops, functions, and conditional operators. These concepts are universal, with only minor variations.

Others will quickly learn the syntax by consulting the dоcumentation.

Choose the backend language that suits you best.
Regardless, you must know JS. (and HTML/CSS as well)

This way, you will have a solid foundation in full stack development.

JS/PHP/HTML
JS/Python/HTML
JS/Ruby/HTML
JS/Whatever/HTML

With this knowledge, you will be able to tackle any web-related task.

Moreover, learning frameworks will become easier since there is nothing much to "learn" there.
It will suffice to search for information online and understand the basic principles of each framework.
And the underlying language is still JS/PHP/Python.

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