Guide to Using Typescript with React

Guide to Using Typescript with React

TypeScript is a statically typed superset of JavaScript that adds several benefits to building using React. Static type checking is provided, which aids in the detection of bugs and enhances the quality of the code throughout the development process.

TypeScript improves code maintainability by facilitating enhanced documentation, refactoring, and teamwork. Some helpful features include automatic code completion, in-line help, and highlighted errors. TypeScript developers can design clean contracts and interfaces for their modules, leading to greater scalability.

Advantages of Using TypeScript with React

The advantages of TypeScript with React are amplified when used together. With TypeScript's built-in support for strong typing, developers can produce more dependable code. Improvements in code structure, refactoring options, and React-specific tools contribute to a more pleasant working experience. 

Runtime mistakes may be minimized because of TypeScript's static type checking, performed during the development process but not at runtime. Further, while developing with React, TypeScript allows easy interaction with other TypeScript-based libraries and ecosystems, leading to faster, more scalable development.

1 Setting Up a TypeScript Project with React   

Creating a New React Project

Use Create React App (CRA) or a similar tool to start a new React project. To construct a new React project with the required dependencies, use the command `npx create-react-app my-app.`

Adding TypeScript to the Project

Install TypeScript and the React and ReactDOM type definitions by running `npm install --save typescript @types/react @types/react-dom after creating the React project.

Configuring TypeScript

Create a `tsconfig.json` file and place it in your project's main folder. Modify this file to fit your project's requirements by providing the target version, module resolution, and other TypeScript compiler parameters.

2 Writing Components with TypeScript         

Type Annotations for Props and State

Define the kinds of your React components' props and states using TypeScript type annotations. This allows the TypeScript compiler to do type-checking and offers clarity on the desired data structure.

Handling Events and Event Handlers

TypeScript allows you to define events and the methods that should be invoked in response to them. Doing so eliminates the possibility of runtime errors and guarantees that event handlers always get the proper event object.

Working with Refs

React relies on the TypeScript `RefObject` type for managing references. References to DOM nodes or React components may now be created safely using type annotations.

Hooks and Function Components

You can use hooks and function components in TypeScript. Parameters and return values of themes should be defined for correct use and type safety.

Type Checking React Context

Type-safe access to context values within components requires defining the kinds of context data used by React.

3 Working with React and TypeScript Ecosystem

Using React Router with TypeScript

React Router supports TypeScript and includes definitions for its supported types. To guarantee type safety and precise routing in your React apps, specify types for route parameters, query strings, and route components in TypeScript.

Integrating Redux with TypeScript

Redux is well-supported in TypeScript. To guarantee type correctness and identify mistakes early on, it is essential to provide type-safe actions, reducers, and application states.

Working with Styled Components

TypeScript is fully compatible with Styled Components. To avoid making any mistakes while styling your React components, you should define types for the properties used to apply the styles.

Testing React Components with TypeScript

Using TypeScript, testing React components is simplified. Use TypeScript's type checking to write type-safe tests that verify that details are given valid arguments and provide the desired results.

4 Advanced TypeScript Techniques for React       

Creating Custom Hooks with TypeScript

TypeScript makes it easy to build reusable custom hooks by allowing you to specify a type for each parameter and result. As a result, your React components will be more reusable and type-safe.

Using Generics with React Components

Using generics in TypeScript, you can build React components that are both versatile and type-safe, allowing you to interact with a wide variety of data types. As a result, code may be reused, and type verification may be improved.

Type-Safe Forms with Formik and Yup

Use TypeScript with the Formik and Yup libraries to build completely type-safe forms. Type-check form submissions and define validation schemas to guarantee the correctness of form input.

Writing Higher-Order Components with TypeScript

Higher-order components (HOCs) benefit from TypeScript's type definition features, which may be used to specify input and output types. This ensures that HOCs in React apps have enough composition and type safety.

5 Best Practices and Tips          

Naming Conventions for TypeScript in React

TypeScript's naming standards will help keep your code consistent and readable. Make your code easier to read using the proper case for components, properties, and constants.

Avoiding Any Type and Using Unknown Instead

To ensure type safety, the `unknown` type should be used instead of `any` other kind. `unknown` necessitates more stringent type checking, which aids in finding possible mistakes.

Using a Non-Null Assertion Operator (!)

In cases when you know for sure that a value won't be null or undefined, use the non-null assertion operator (! ). Take care while using it so that no runtime issues occur.

Enforcing Strict Null Checking

Enabling tight null checking in the TypeScript setup may help developers see probable null or undefined values early on, making for more reliable code.

Working with Third-Party Libraries and TypeScript Definitions

Check whether the external libraries you want to utilize include TypeScript support or type definitions (`@types` packages). Your React applications may benefit from comprehensive type-checking and editing support for the libraries above.

6 Debugging and Troubleshooting        

Common TypeScript and React Errors

Learn to recognize typical error messages in both TypeScript with React. Incorrect use of hooks, undefined variables, missing props, and so on are all examples.

Debugging TypeScript Code in the Browser

To debug transpile code in the browser, have TypeScript generate source maps during compilation. Source mappings connect the JavaScript code to its corresponding TypeScript source to facilitate debugging.

Using ESLint and TSLint for Code Quality

Set up either ESLint or TSLint to inspect your TypeScript code for mistakes and recommend improvements. Code quality may be improved with the help of linting tools since they can find problems before they become major headaches.

7 TypeScript Tooling for React  

IDE Support and Extensions

Use integrated development environments (IDEs) like Visual Studio Code, which provide first-rate TypeScript and React support. Autocompletion, code navigation, and error highlighting are just a few ways installing the appropriate extensions may improve the programming experience.

Type Definitions and DefinitelyTyped

Use DefinitelyTyped to get TypeScript type definitions for external libraries. Type checking and improved interaction with React and its ecosystem are enabled by installing type definitions (`@types` packages).

TypeScript Compiler Options

Change the settings in `tsconfig.json` to build TypeScript how you want it to. You may optimize your React with TypeScript project by adjusting the target version and module resolution options.

8 Migrating Existing React Projects to TypeScript   

Strategies for Incremental Migration

Adopt a phased migration strategy by replacing JavaScript with TypeScript files over time. Update to TypeScript in stages, beginning with the most important parts or upcoming features. This allows for less upheaval and a smoother changeover.

Handling Third-Party Libraries and Type Declarations

Verify that TypeScript is supported by, or type declarations are accessible for, any external libraries used in your project. If type safety is essential while utilizing those libraries, you should make your type declarations or contribute to the DefinitelyTyped repository.

Dealing with Legacy Code

The transition to TypeScript necessitates refactoring and updating existing code. Focus first on the most crucial parts of the code or the most often updated ones. Refactoring may improve the type of safety and maintainability of outdated code.

Conclusion 

Combining TypeScript with React significantly enhances the development procedure. Static type checking in TypeScript raises the code's quality and helps catch errors early. 

Through improved documentation and refactoring features, it makes code more easily maintained and facilitates teamwork. The best reactjs development services may take advantage of autocompletion, error checking, and increased productivity thanks to TypeScript's tools support. 

Developers may create dependable and type-safe React components by adhering to best practices and using advanced approaches like building custom hooks and leveraging generics. Additionally, TypeScript's compatibility with the most used React frameworks and tools is effortless. With TypeScript's help, developers can build React apps that are more robust, scalable, and easy to maintain.

Author Bio:

Atman Rathod is the Co-founder at CMARIX TechnoLabs Pvt. Ltd., a leading web and mobile app development company with 16+ years of experience. He loves to write about technology, startups, entrepreneurship and business. His creative abilities, academic track record and leadership skills made him one of the key industry influencers as well.


Is it Still worth Learning React Native in 2022?

Is it Still worth Learning React Native in 2022?

React Native is an open-source cross-platform created by Facebook, which lets developers build native mobile apps on Android and iOS simultaneously using a single codebase.

Before diving into the actual topic, let's take a short trip to the history of React Native development.

React Native was introduced in the market when Facebook wanted to release its mobile app version back in 2012-2015. Initially, they tried to do it using software development technologies. However, considering the popularity and importance of user experience in mobile applications, it turned out to be insufficient. Eventually, providing a good user experience to their mobile app users became one of their main goals.

The turning point was when the developers at Facebook discovered a way to create native iOS controls using JavaScript. Then in, a hackathon allowed the development of this idea, and the React Native prototype was developed as well.

Then later, in 2015, Facebook released its first version of React Native and revealed that Facebook Ads Manager was the first application to be developed on this platform. More and more apps then followed the path.

Famous Apps Developed Using React Native

Instagram

It is one of the most popular social media platforms, well-known for sharing photos and videos. Although it is currently owned by Facebook, it was a separate company when it was developed on React Native Platform. The team of developers at Instagram wanted to explore React Native to launch their new features faster; they also wanted to improve their version speed through code sharing. Eventually, they were successful in speeding up their cycle speed through code sharing. New updates and development on Instagram are now more productive and hassle-free.

AirBnB

It is an online marketplace that connects the two parties, i.e., people who want to rent out their place and the person. At first, when they began to invest in React Native app development, the integration of the existing native app felt wasteful and costly. But right after realizing the app performance, they are pretty much satisfied with react native.

Skype

Skype is a proprietary telecommunications application and one of the oldest video chat and conferencing call platforms. They shifted their app development platform to react native to maximize the efficiency of its features and functions.

Resultantly, Skype updated its interfaces, such as icons, layout, button placements, etc, using React Native app development services, and they could add additional features to make it more functional.

Why the World’s Top Brands Choose React Native for their App

Saves Double Work

The companies that use native for their app development have to hire two separate teams for app development, i.e., for iOS and Android. React Native is a cross-platform that uses a single codebase to develop mobile apps for both platforms simultaneously. This way, businesses can save a lot of time and energy resources for the developer team. The logic layer is written in JavaScript and the views are described using React Native.

Lessen the Development Time

Development and delivery of React Native apps are relatively short. Thanks to the fast refresh feature, a local version is refreshed in just a few seconds, with each save. If you alter a control in the code, once you save the change it will be immediately visible in the simulator. When we talk about native apps, a full app recompilation has to be processed to see your change, and thus the delivery takes longer.

Platform-Oriented Teams Turn into Product-Oriented Teams

While using React Native, companies can emphasize the product itself and have one team of developers working on it, rather than two separate ones for each platform. 

Why Is It Still Worth Learning React Native in 2022?

If you are already familiar with working in web development, then learning React Native might not be the challenging for you, also it will give you even bigger opportunities while using the minimum amount of effort. You are already equipped with a couple of skills that are required to learn React Native;

  • the understanding of React and its related tools,
  • Declarative UI or a component strategy for building apps.

That is actually a solid knowledge base for a start.

When you are a React Native developer, doors of interesting and cutting-edge projects that use innovative technologies like Augmented Reality, are often opened for you.

An example of this type of app might be an app for a paint company, where you can see what a specific paint will look like on a particular wall. Simply by scanning the wall with your camera. Another example might be an app that allows users to see how furniture will look when placed somewhere. Sounds pretty cool, right?

Also Read: 15 FAQs Related To React Native Mobile App Development

Ending Notes

Nobody can deny the fact that more and more companies are opting for react native for their mobile app development services due to faster development and deployment time. This creates a high pool of jobs to react native developers, the job market is flooded with requirements of react-native developers and it is definitely a path worth taking.

Contact us to get your app developed by the best react native development company, or you can also get consultancy from a team of developers with many years of experience. Our team is waiting to help you out!


React Js: A good place to start for new developers

React Js: A good place to start for new developers

Learning the most widely used framework can lead to lucrative job chances. 

In 2020, the UI libraries/frameworks of choice for front-end development will be React, Vue.js, and Angular. This isn't going to be a comparison piece; instead, I'll go over all of the reasons why React is a fantastic choice for novice devs. I might make comparisons when appropriate to highlight some of React's strengths.

I've looked at all three UI libraries separately in the past, and I've always gone with Vue for my projects. Even though I prefer Vue, if you asked me which one you should learn as a new developer, I would recommend React. 

That was a difficult choice for me. And this isn't a one-sided article that exaggerates React's benefits while disregarding key facts. I'll discuss why React is a wonderful place to start if you want to be a web developer. By any stretch of the imagination, this does not imply that Angular or Vue are bad beginning points.

I'll go over the reasons why React has a tiny advantage in the rest of the essay, especially for inexperienced web developers.

Opportunities 

The major reason I trust React is that it offers the most possibilities. It's a popular UI library with a lot of high-paying employment and a wide range of applications. 

You can move to the next level. 

You may use React's large ecosystem of open source components to increase its functionality. The library itself is diverse, and you can study a lot and become an expert in a short amount of time.

To become a React "expert," you'll probably need to know a lot of JavaScript, understand how the DOM works, and other crucial aspects of web development.

Because not all front-end libraries (Vue and Angular aside) have enough depth for you to become an expert, React merits special consideration. Because you can learn to use it for a long period, there are senior React developer opportunities that pay well over six figures.

App creation for mobile devices 

Learning React Native, a technology that allows you to build apps for iOS and Android devices from the same code base, is one of the fantastic options you have after learning React.

React Native is undoubtedly the most capable cross-platform programming framework. Although Google's Flutter is gaining traction, React Native continues to dominate. Although we can admit, there is a battle, of React Native vs Flutter.

React Native is used by Facebook to create its mobile apps, demonstrating how powerful it is as a framework.

Of course, there are numerous arguments in favor of designing native apps rather than hybrid apps. React Native, on the other hand, might be a terrific solution for lower-scale and simpler projects.

React Native is not just a powerful framework that you can master, but it's also a lucrative career path with several high-paying opportunities.

Make your projects with it. 

React is a fast and dependable user interface library that you may use in your projects. Learning React will make it simple for you to get into the code and produce anything, whether you're starting a new business, managing a product, or need to construct a quick prototype.

If you're an entrepreneur, learning how to use a front-end framework like React can help you quickly develop and test new ideas. It isn't the only option, but it is a good one because it allows you to design UI elements quickly.

Ecosystem & Community 

When selecting a new framework, the community is an important factor to consider. All developers who use, ask questions about, discuss, or contribute to open source projects are considered members of the community.

On GitHub, React has over 155k stars, and its vast community makes it simple to:

  • Find solutions to the problems you're having. 
  • To create additional functionality, look for third-party plugins and extensions. 
  • Employ seasoned programmers. 
  • Contributions will help to keep the project alive.

There are both free and paid to React themes available to help you get started on new projects faster. You may utilize sophisticated input or UI components to create new features much more quickly, and you can also use advanced components to increase speed, which we'll discuss later.

Many things you won't have to construct yourself thanks to the project's big community; instead, you may use battle-tested open-source packages to save development time.

To be fair, Vue and Angular both have sizable communities, so this benefit isn't exclusive to React. But, of the three, it is the most popular and has the largest community.

Extraordinary features 

There are several built-in ways and third-party packages that aid with advanced functionality and speed optimization in React, which is a large and diversified UI toolkit.

You can read the Complex Guides section of the manual to learn more advanced React topics. Optimizing Performance is a wonderful place to start for any React application that is slow to respond when it is utilized.

Vue, for example, struggles to keep up with more advanced use cases and particularly large-scale applications as a separate project. React is designed for large-scale applications, and Facebook uses it in nearly all of its products.

Learning 

Is it simple?

If I had to respond quickly, I would say no. Vue, for example, is simpler to understand since it uses fewer ideas. 

Is it worthwhile to learn? 

Yes. This is a simple answer because I feel it is currently one of the fastest-growing and most in-demand technologies. Even if you don't use React in your job, studying front-end principles and knowing JavaScript at a high level might open up a lot of additional doors.

Prerequisites 

You must be familiar with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript before learning React. If you need help in HTML, CSS, or JavaScript, you should brush up on your abilities or enroll in a beginner React course.

The more you learn about how web browsers function, concepts like the Document Object Model (DOM), and how modern web apps are built, the easier it will be to grasp React.

Even if you don't have all of the parts in place, diving in can teach you a lot.

Concepts in React 

In comparison to more organized frameworks like Angular, React doesn't introduce too many concepts.

When beginning out with React, you'll need to learn about JSX, which is a JavaScript syntax extension that blends HTML code with JavaScript.

The learning curve is a little steeper with JSX, but I urge that you be patient. The template syntax of Vue and Angular can be comprehended with minimal effort, but mastering JSX is a requirement to get started with React.

What kind of educational materials are available? 

Reading the official documentation is my preferred method of learning new technology. This is not something I would recommend to everyone, especially rookie programmers.

The documentation for React is well-written and straightforward. If you're like me and prefer to learn new technologies by reading their official documentation, React will make it a snap. Once you get ready, you can prepare yourself for react interview questions, and get yourself a job.

If not, read the Getting Started guide and the Main Concepts section to have a better understanding of React.

Online classes are a terrific method to learn for many people, and luckily for React, they're easy to locate. On Udemy, edx, and other online course portals, there are a plethora of highly-rated courses taught by excellent professors.

If you're convinced, I suggest you start learning React and start advancing your front-end development skills.