Essential JavaScript Techniques for React Developers — ES6 Part 01.

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As a React developer, having a solid understanding of JavaScript is essential. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most critical JavaScript techniques that every React developer should know.

ES6: ECMAScript 2015

If you’re a JavaScript developer, you may have heard of ES6, also known as ECMAScript 2015. This sixth edition of the ECMAScript standard defines the scripting language JavaScript and has since become the new standard for JavaScript. Knowing ES6 can enhance your JavaScript skills and make your coding more efficient.

Block Scope Variables with “let”

In JavaScript, the let keyword allows variables to be declared in block scope. This means that variables declared inside a block, like a loop or a function, are only accessible within that block. Using let can help prevent variable conflicts and improve code readability.

var x = 10;
// here x is 10
{
    let x = 2;
    // here x is 2
}
// here x is 10

“Const” for Immutable Variables

Another way to declare variables in JavaScript is with the const keyword. This keyword creates variables that cannot be reassigned a new value. While the variable cannot be reassigned, the properties of an object assigned to a const variable can be changed. This technique can help prevent accidental reassignment of values and make your code more predictable.

var x = 10;
// here x is 10
{
    const x = 2;
    // here x is 2
}
// here x is 10

Arrow Functions

Arrow functions provide a concise syntax for writing JavaScript functions. This syntax does not require the function keyword, return keyword, or curly brackets. Arrow functions are particularly useful when working with higher-order functions like map() and reduce().

//ES6
const clickMe = () => {
    console.log("click me")
}

Ternary Operator for Conditional Statements

The ternary operator is a concise way to write conditional statements in JavaScript. It takes a condition, followed by a question mark (?), then an expression to execute if the condition is truthy followed by a colon (:), and finally the expression to execute if the condition is falsy. This technique can help simplify your code and make it more readable.

let age = 10;
let name = "nipun";

//traditional
if (age < 10){
    name = "nipun";
}
else
{
    name = "madusanka";
}

//ES6
let name2 = age < 10 ? "nipun" : "madusanka";

The Spread (…) Operator

The spread operator allows for the expansion of an iterable object, such as an array or a string, into individual elements. This operator can be used to merge arrays, copy arrays, and more.

const numbers0 = [23,55,21,87,56];
const numbers1 = [23,55,21,87,56];

const numbersAdd = [...numbers0, 78]
const numberMerge = [...numbers1, ...numbers0];

The map() Method for Arrays

The map() method is a built-in JavaScript function that creates a new array by calling the provided function on each element of the provided array and inserting its results. This technique can help simplify your code and make it more readable when working with arrays.

const numbers = [23,55,21,87,56];

numbers.map((number) =>{
    console.log(number);
})

Conclusion

As a React developer, having a strong grasp of JavaScript is essential. Understanding these techniques and concepts can improve your coding efficiency, prevent errors, and create more robust web applications. Don’t be afraid to explore further and try new techniques to enhance your skills.

Next: Part 02