DEV Community

Cover image for Getting Started With React & Vite
Nayan Kaslikar
Nayan Kaslikar

Posted on

Getting Started With React & Vite

React

The perfect cheatsheet for you πŸ“•πŸ”–

Are you a developer ready to dive into the exciting world of React? Buckle up, because we're about to embark on a thrilling journey of building dynamic user interfaces, mastering component-based architecture, and unleashing the power of modern web development. But fear not, dear reader, for this won't be your typical blog post. Oh no, we're going to make learning React an interactive and enjoyable experience! So, grab your favorite beverage, fire up your code editor, and let's get started!

1. TypeScript: The Superhero of Static Typing

First things first, let's talk TypeScript. Imagine a world where bugs tremble in fear before they even dare to show themselves. That's the power of TypeScript! By adding static types to your JavaScript code, you'll catch errors before they wreak havoc in your application. So go ahead, sprinkle some TypeScript magic into your React project, and watch those bugs vanish into oblivion!

React Vs Vite

2. React: Your New Best Friend

Ah, React! The beating heart of modern web development. With its component-based architecture and declarative syntax, building interactive UIs has never been more delightful. Say goodbye to spaghetti code and hello to reusable components that make your codebase a joy to work with. Trust me, once you go React, you'll never look back!

TypeScript

3. Two Paths, One Destination

When it comes to setting up your React project, you've got options. Whether you prefer the simplicity of Create React App or the blazing fast performance of Vite, the choice is yours! Just pick your poison, follow a few simple commands, and voila, you're ready to start coding!

Vite
We will choose Vite.

4. Node Version Check: Don't Get Left Behind

Before we dive any deeper, let's make sure you're running the right version of Node.js. After all, you don't want to be stuck in the Stone Age while the rest of the world is zooming ahead. So fire up your terminal, type in a simple command, and let's ensure you're rocking the latest and greatest Node.js has to offer!

node -v
Enter fullscreen mode Exit fullscreen mode

5. Vite Commands: The Need for Speed

Speaking of speed, have you heard of Vite? It's like the Formula 1 car of front-end development tools. With just a handful of commands, you can spin up a lightning-fast development server, optimize your production build, and leave your competitors in the dust. So buckle up, because we're about to take Vite for a spin!

npm create vite@4.1.0
Enter fullscreen mode Exit fullscreen mode

Select the following settings

Need to install the following packages:
create-vite@4.1.0
Ok to proceed? (y) y
√ Project name: ... react-app
√ Select a framework: » React
√ Select a variant: » TypeScript
Enter fullscreen mode Exit fullscreen mode

6. VS Code: Your Coding Sanctuary

Ah, Visual Studio Code. The holy grail of code editors. With its sleek interface, powerful extensions, and built-in TypeScript support, VS Code is the perfect companion for your React journey. So go ahead, open up your favorite project, and let the coding adventures begin!

Now run:

  cd react-app
  npm install

Enter fullscreen mode Exit fullscreen mode

7. NPM Run Dev: Let's Get Cooking

Time to fire up your development server and see your React masterpiece come to life! With just a simple npm command, you'll have your app up and running in no time. So sit back, relax, and marvel at the beauty of your creation as it dances across your screen!

npm run dev
Enter fullscreen mode Exit fullscreen mode

8. Project Structure: Lay the Foundations

A well-organized project structure is the backbone of any successful React application. From components to styles to assets, everything has its place. So let's roll up our sleeves, create some folders, and lay the foundations for a project that's as sturdy as it is elegant!

Project Structure

9. Crafting Your First Message Component

Let's kick things off by crafting a simple yet delightful Message component. Whether it's a friendly greeting or a personalized message, this component will be the cornerstone of your React journey. So fire up your code editor, flex those coding muscles, and let's bring this message to life!

Message.tsx


function Message(){
    let name;
    if(name){
         return <h1>Hello {name}</h1>
    }
    return <h1>Hello User</h1>

}

export default Message;


Enter fullscreen mode Exit fullscreen mode

App.tsx

import Message from "./Message";

function App(){
  return <Message></Message>
}

export default App;

Enter fullscreen mode Exit fullscreen mode

10. Library vs. Framework: Know the Difference

Before we proceed, let's take a moment to clarify something. React is a library, not a framework. What's the difference, you ask? Well, a library is a tool to use as you see fit, while a framework imposes a structure upon your code using a collection of tools. So remember, with React, you're in control!

Library Framework

11. Fragments: Keeping It Clean

In the world of React, sometimes you need to render multiple elements without a parent wrapper. That's where fragments come in handy! With their invisible presence, fragments allow you to keep your JSX clean and clutter-free. So go ahead, embrace the power of fragments, and let your components breathe!

<> 
   //add your fantastic react-code here
</>
Enter fullscreen mode Exit fullscreen mode

12. Mastering the Art of Rendering Lists

Ah, the humble list. A staple of web development since the dawn of time. But fear not, for React makes rendering lists a breeze! With just a sprinkle of JavaScript magic, you can turn an array of data into a beautiful list of elements. So grab your favorite array, map through it like a pro, and let's bring those lists to life!

function ListGroup() {
  const items = ["India", "London", "France", "Mexico", "USA"];

  return (
    <>
      <ul className="list-group">
        {items.map((item) => (
          <li key={item}>{item}</li>
        ))}
      </ul>
    </>
  );
}

export default ListGroup;

Enter fullscreen mode Exit fullscreen mode

13. Handling Special Cases with &&

What do you do when your list is as empty as a desert? Fear not, for React has your back with the power of conditional rendering! With the mighty && operator, you can gracefully handle those special cases and ensure a seamless user experience. So sit back, relax, and let React do the heavy lifting for you!

function ListGroup() {
  let items = ["India", "London", "France", "Mexico", "USA"];

  items = [];
  return (
    <>
      <h1>List group </h1>
      {items.length === 0 && <p>No items found</p>}
      <ul className="list-group">
        {items.map((item) => (
          <li key={item}>{item}</li>
        ))}
      </ul>
    </>
  );
}

export default ListGroup;

Enter fullscreen mode Exit fullscreen mode

And there you have it, dear reader! A whirlwind tour of React, sprinkled with fun, interactivity, and plenty of coding adventures. So what are you waiting for? Fire up your code editor, unleash your creativity, and let's build some amazing things together!

Let me know in comments how interesting you found this cheat sheet.
Leave a rating below for fun ! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Top comments (0)