What is React.js and What is it Used for?
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| What is React.js and What is it Used for? |
What is
React?
React, in a nutshell, is a JavaScript library developed by
Facebook. It's the most widely used library for creating single-page apps and
interactive user interfaces. Surprisingly, React is frequently referred to as a
framework.
Being open-source allows the library to remain at the top of
popularity rankings. According to a large study conducted by Stack Overflow,
React.js is the framework of choice for more than 40% of individuals, with just
jQuery coming in second.
But what exactly is a library? In contrast to frameworks,
libraries are just the methods through which you construct applications. You
are not directed and nothing is provided on a silver platter (as in the case of
frameworks), but rather you determine which tools to use and then you develop a
successful project.
We said that React is a JavaScript library, but what is
JavaScript exactly? Many of you are probably already aware of the answer, but
for those who are new with the phrase and technology, JavaScript is essentially
a programming language used in web development. Developers may use JavaScript
to create a broad range of dynamic content, images, animations, and so on.
What is React Used for?
React, as a JavaScript library, is utilised in a wide range
of projects. Why? Because it's such a flexible instrument, the solution is
quite straightforward. It may be used with a variety of frameworks and
technologies, including Material UI, Redux, and Create React App. This will
help the library to extend its wings even further.
Developers may use React to construct dynamic single-page
apps. That, however, would not have been sufficient for React to achieve such
success. It had to include something more, which it accomplished with virtual
DOM (Document Object Model) and JSX (JavaScript Syntax Extension).
Virtual DOM
React modifying the real DOM results in virtual DOM. As the
name implies, such an activity effectively produces a replica of DOM. Why is it
employed? Because it allows the library to determine which elements of the DOM
need to be updated in order for the website to work correctly and then performs
the necessary changes.
Furthermore, updating virtual DOM takes far less time than
updating your actual Document Object Model, making React even more efficient.
But what exactly is DOM? In a nutshell, DOM is an API
structure that describes a document. In the case of DOM, it can be either an
XML or an HTML page.
Of course, there's more to DOM than meets the eye, such as
the use of HTML attributes, but delving into the Document Object Model would
certainly necessitate a new post.
JSX
As previously stated, JSX is a syntactic extension for the
JavaScript language (also known as JavaScript XML) that employs simple, yet
effective code akin to HTML. Furthermore, the extension is a highly adaptable
tool that allows users to utilise it on any platform that has a browser.
Because of JSX, the code becomes more understandable, and it
allows components to be placed in a single file or catalogue, which improves
component reusability. If you're acquainted with JSX, you may have come across
XHP, which is Facebook's other extension syntax, but for PHP rather than HTML.
React
Native
Did you think we'd finished? Absolutely not. React Native
must be mentioned while discussing React. React Native, as the name implies, is
used to create mobile applications.
In contrast to the standard React library, React Native
operates on a JavaScript thread. JavaScript then reads the code and exchanges
data with its components, culminating in the compilation of React components
into native user interface elements.
A software developer may even create mobile applications in
Java or Swift using React Native (for Android and iOS respectively).
Why Should
You Choose React?
Some of you may be wondering why you should use React when there are so many alternative JavaScript frameworks available, such as Ember or Angular. Let's go through these few bullet points:
- It’s easy and simple to learn;
- It’s the most popular choice for web developers;
- Supported by a large community;
- Versatility;
- Great performance.
Key
Takeaways
Distinguishing React from a framework and a library may be difficult. Remember the following guidelines to prevent making avoidable mistakes:
- It’s the most popular JavaScript library available;
- React Native is meant to be used for developing mobile apps;
- React is a library, not a framework;
- The library has a huge and supportive community;
- Basic knowledge of HTML/CSS is enough to start learning React;
Conclusions
And we're almost finished! Despite the existence of
alternative JavaScript libraries such as Vue.js, React remains the indisputable
monarch and deserves acknowledgment and appreciation.
We covered a lot of ground, from discussing what React is and what it's used for, to its origins, to React Native and its use in various apps.
If you've never tried React and all of the above seems tempting, be sure to check out our list of the top web development blogs to learn React, other frameworks, and more!
For more information visit our website-: Swaraa Tech Solutions
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