React Hooks Types: A Simple Guide For Better Components

What are React Hooks?

React Hooks allow developers to manage state and lifecycle methods within functional components. Before hooks, stateful logic was only possible using class components. Now, hooks make it easier to manage local state, fetch data, and encapsulate reusable logic in a structured manner.

Types of React Hooks in Functional Components

React Hooks can be divided into two categories: built-in hooks and custom hooks. Built-in hooks provide direct functionality, while custom hooks encapsulate reusable logic for better code modularity.

1. Built-in React Hooks Built-in hooks provide fundamental functionalities for managing state, side effects, and context.

*1 useState *– Managing Local State
Within functional components, the useState hook aids in local state management. The state variable and an update function are included in the array that is returned.

2 useEffect – Handling Side Effects
The useEffect hook is used for executing side effects, such as fetching data, subscriptions, and manually manipulating the DOM.

3 useContext – Managing Global State with React Context
The useContext hook simplifies global state management within a component tree.

4 useReducer – Managing Complex State Logic
When state logic becomes complex, useReducer is a better choice than useState. It uses a reducer function to determine state transitions.

2. Custom Hooks in React

Custom hooks help encapsulate reusable logic while keeping functional components clean.

1. Creating a Custom Hook for Data Fetching
   A custom hook can be used to handle repetitive logic such as fetching data.

2. Using the useFetch Hook

3. Optimising Performance with React Hooks

React provides hooks like useCallback and useMemo to enhance performance by reducing re-render cycles.

1. useCallback – Preventing Unnecessary Function Re-Creation
A callback function inside a component is recreated on each render. useCallback ensures that the function reference remains the same unless dependencies change.

2 useMemo – Memoising Expensive Computations
useMemo optimises performance by caching computed values.

1. Managing Lifecycle with useEffect React Hooks replace traditional lifecycle methods such as componentDidMount. The useEffect hook runs logic when a component mounts.