Getting started with Ruby on Rails can seem daunting at first, but with the right approach, you can quickly grasp the essentials. This powerful web application framework, built on the Ruby programming language, follows the Convention over Configuration paradigm, making it easier for beginners to create robust applications. To begin your journey, you'll need to set up your local development environment. First, install Ruby, then set up Rails using the command gem install rails. Ensure you have a working version of SQLite or other database systems, as they are crucial for data storage in Rails applications.

Once you have your environment ready, it's time to create your first application. Use the command rails new myapp to generate a new Rails project. This command creates a directory structure and necessary files for your application. Next, navigate into your app's directory and start the server with rails server. You can now access your app at http://localhost:3000. As you explore the framework, focus on learning about the MVC architecture—Model, View, and Controller—as this is fundamental to building scalable applications with Ruby on Rails. Don’t forget to consult the Rails Guides for comprehensive documentation and tutorials!

Ruby on Rails is a powerful framework that streamlines web application development, but novice developers often encounter common pitfalls. Here are the top 10 common pitfalls in Ruby on Rails development:

1. Neglecting proper testing: Failing to implement automated tests can lead to problematic bugs in production.
2. Improper use of gems: Over-reliance on third-party gems without understanding their impact can cause security vulnerabilities.
3. Ignoring database performance: Not optimizing queries can slow down application performance, especially with larger datasets.
4. Pushing code without code reviews: This can introduce bugs and affect team collaboration.
5. Inadequate understanding of conventions: Rails follows specific conventions, and ignoring them can lead to maintainability issues.

Continuing with our list, here are additional pitfalls to avoid:

6. Not leveraging built-in features: Failing to utilize Rails' powerful built-in functionalities such as Active Record can lead to redundant code.
7. Neglecting front-end performance: Developers should ensure that the front-end is not lagging the back-end, impacting user experience.
8. Inconsistent use of environment configurations: Having misconfigured environments can result in different results across development and production.
9. Underestimating the importance of RESTful design: Poorly designed routes can confuse the application architecture.
10. Skipping documentation: Lack of proper documentation makes onboarding new team members challenging.

By being mindful of these common pitfalls in Ruby on Rails development, developers can enhance their programming practices and deliver more robust applications.

Ruby on Rails has become a highly preferred choice for startups due to its ability to accelerate the development process. The framework follows the Convention over Configuration principle, which allows developers to write less code while achieving more functionality. This is particularly beneficial for startups looking to launch their products quickly to capture market opportunities. Additionally, Ruby on Rails boasts a rich library of gems and plugins, enabling developers to add features effortlessly, thus enhancing development speed and efficiency.

Another compelling reason for startups to choose Ruby on Rails is its vibrant community and excellent support. The community actively contributes to the framework's improvement and offers numerous resources for troubleshooting and learning. As a startup, having access to a pool of experienced developers and readily available documentation can significantly reduce overhead costs and development time. Furthermore, the framework’s emphasis on scalability and performance ensures that startups can grow without having to worry about their technological foundations.