Angular is a robust and versatile framework developed by Google, designed for building dynamic web applications. One of its key features is its modular architecture, which allows developers to break applications into manageable components. This modular approach not only enhances code maintainability but also promotes reusability across different parts of an application. Another significant feature is the two-way data binding, allowing real-time synchronization between the model and the view, drastically simplifying the overall development process.

For developers, the benefits of Angular extend beyond just its core features. The framework provides powerful tools such as the Angular CLI (Command Line Interface), which streamlines the development workflow by automating various tasks like project setup, code generation, and testing. Additionally, Angular supports TypeScript, a statically typed language that enhances code quality through type checking and modern features. With its extensive documentation and a vibrant community, Angular also offers developers a wealth of resources and support, making it an appealing choice for both beginners and seasoned professionals.

When using Angular in web development, one of the common mistakes to avoid is neglecting the importance of understanding the framework's architecture. Angular is built on components, services, and modules, and failing to grasp this structure can lead to poorly organized code. A clear hierarchy can significantly affect maintainability, scalability, and performance. It's essential to spend time learning about dependency injection and how to effectively use the application’s lifecycle hooks to maximize the framework's capabilities.

Another frequent misstep is not optimizing the performance of Angular applications. Developers often overlook the use of ChangeDetectionStrategy and the impact of unnecessary digest cycles on application speed. To enhance performance, consider implementing lazy loading for routing modules and using trackBy with ngFor to minimize DOM manipulations. Additionally, always be cautious of memory leaks, especially when subscribing to observables without unsubscribing, as these can cause your application to slow down over time.

Getting started with Angular can be an exciting yet challenging journey for beginners. To begin, you need to set up your development environment. First, ensure that you have Node.js installed, as it is essential for running Angular applications. Next, install the Angular CLI (Command Line Interface) by running the command npm install -g @angular/cli in your terminal. This tool will streamline the creation and management of Angular projects. Once you have everything set up, create your first Angular application by executing ng new my-app in your terminal, replacing 'my-app' with your desired project name.

After creating your Angular application, it's time to understand its structure. Navigate into your project directory using cd my-app, and start the development server with ng serve. Your app should now be running at http://localhost:4200. Familiarize yourself with the key directories: src contains the main source code, app holds your application’s core modules and components, and assets is where you can store images and other files. As you explore, consider following a structured learning path that includes concepts such as components, services, and routing to build a solid foundation in Angular.