Intermediate JavaScript

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Best Practices and Code Styles

Writing clear, efficient, and maintainable code is fundamental in software development. In this chapter, we will explore best practices and code styles that improve the quality and readability of JavaScript code.

Use Descriptive Variable and Function Names

Variable and function names should be descriptive and reflect their purpose in the code.

javascript

"In the second example, the names 'multiplier' and 'multiplyArrayByNumber' make the purpose of the code much clearer and easier to understand."

Keep Functions Small and with a Single Responsibility

It is advisable that each function performs a single task. This facilitates debugging and code reuse.

javascript

"In the second example, we split 'processUserData' into specific functions that perform a single task, improving clarity and reusability."

Use `const` and `let` Instead of `var`

const and let offer better scope control and avoid errors associated with var, such as hoisting and redeclaration.

javascript

"Here we use 'const' to define the value of 'pi', which should not change, and 'let' for variables that may be reassigned."

Object and Array Destructuring

Destructuring allows extracting values from objects and arrays in a concise and clear way.

javascript

"In this example, destructuring extracts 'name' and 'age' from the 'user' object, and the first two elements from the 'numbers' array."

Avoid the Use of Magic Numbers and Strings

Magic numbers or strings (unexplained values) can make the code confusing. Use descriptive constants for these values.

javascript

"Here we use 'ADMIN_ROLE' to clarify that we are checking if the user has an administrator role, instead of using a direct string."

Use Template Literals to Concatenate Strings

Template Literals facilitate concatenation and offer greater readability.

javascript

"We use Template Literals to combine text and variables in a readable and simple way."

Efficient Error Handling

Use try/catch blocks to handle errors and provide helpful messages. This prevents errors from stopping program execution.

javascript

"Here, 'try/catch' allows capturing errors in 'fetchData' and 'process', showing a clear message in case of failure."

Document the Code

Comments and documentation help understand the logic and purpose of the code.

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"Here, the comment describes the function 'calculateCircleArea', clarifying its purpose."

Maintain Consistent Formatting

Use a consistent code format and tools like Prettier or ESLint to standardize the style.

Prettier: Automatically formats the code to follow a consistent style.
ESLint: Detects errors and suggests style improvements.

Conclusion

Best practices and code styles are essential to keep code readable, maintainable, and error-free. By applying these principles, you will improve the quality and sustainability of your JavaScript projects.

With this chapter, we conclude the Intermediate JavaScript course. Congratulations on completing the course! Keep practicing and exploring to continue improving your JavaScript skills.

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