JavaScript originated as a very popular scripting language for web environments, however, with time, it has evolved into a fully functional multi-paradigm programming language. JavaScript is being used for creating complex programs and both backend or server-side execution alongside frontend programming.
One can definitely use TypeScript which is an easier alternative to writing a massive amount of code and possesses the ability to run anything that can be executed in JavaScript. However, when working with frameworks that do not support TypeScript, or the developers simply need to work without formatters, there is a requirement to keep the code scalable and efficient across various environments alongside the need for easy debugging.
12 Tips for JavaScript programmers to write better code
How the code is written has a huge impact on the final result, hence there is a need for the most effective use of code and tools in order to achieve peak performance. JavaScript can be very easy for developers to use, however, when relying on the adaptability of codes and the performance during execution, one must take care to keep certain factors in mind.
Write Shorter and Simpler Code
Developers should try writing code in smaller chunks to enable ease of access during debugging or searching for a chunk of logic. Keeping shorter components makes the code more elegant as well and longer code does not necessarily display advanced coding skills. One can also try keeping the total amount of lines below 500 while keeping the indentation level up to 4 or 5.
Developers should also take care to limit the total characters in a line to 80 characters as this allows us to line up the tabs accurately below each other. Overcomplicating code can result in more errors. Even if the code is functional, we must definitely check if it is possible to make it shorter without losing on the functionality. The ability to write concise and shorter codes is truly valued by future contributors or debuggers.
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Code Isolation
One of the most impactful things developers can do for keeping codebases readable and clean is having portions of logic split according to the topic. Functions should also be written for singular purposes and not for a variety of tasks. When functions are written, data should be allotted to functions alongside the parameters without interference from any other element. Developers should try avoiding functions that have “side-effects” or adverse effects on other elements. This allows developers to avoid false declarations and functional errors.
No Repetitions
Do not repeat the same codes if not needed. Not using repetitions promotes testing, debugging, maintenance and removes unnecessary code. Having codes that are not being utilised also allows more room for bugs and glitches to occur. Clean codebases are easier to manage and work on. Developers should occasionally search for repetitions, then proceed to isolate and remove them.
Use Multiple Parameters Instead of Single Object Parameters
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This is especially useful when working with functions that are larger in size. When trying to declare a function, developers can definitely use multiple parameters as compared to a single parameter expecting objects. This makes it easy for developers to understand what they require to make the function work by looking at the starting line where the function is declared. If done this way, it promotes easy scalability and removes the need to scan through the entire body of the function to find the variables needed to pass.
Benchmarking
Developers should definitely test benchmarks on their JavaScript components to evaluate the performance of the codes. Benchmarking allows developers to compare two timestamps and the performance using testing suites or benchmarking libraries. One can run benchmarks on full components or just parts of their code.
Destructuring
The destructuring syntax allows developers to make their codes much more readable and shorter. Destructuring works on both objects and arrays, allowing developers to bring variables to the unpacked value or properties of the arrays and objects. Destructuring also allows users to extract a set of variables using a single declaration. Developers should definitely consider using destructuring especially when using an object as a function parameter.
Naming Components and Variables According to Content
Developers should take care in naming variables and the components depending on the contents and not the context of the statements. Codes should have the freedom to be easily used in other contexts as well. Using specific verbs for the allotment of names is a great way to start while using generic terms for components is more efficient.
Memory Management
When trying to achieve peak performance of your codes, memory management is very important. Developers should remove old views, handlers, and references. Memory-clean-up is as valuable as removing the observers that detect memory leaks. Memory leaks can lead to randomised errors especially when writing single-page web applications.
Using Default Values
Using default values is highly recommended during destructuring or writing function parameters. Default values can indicate the values which are not required. Default values also provide examples of the required values that can be passed on to the functions.
Using Profiling and Optimisation
Developers can use Profiling to detect the functions that are taking the highest amount of time in order to optimise them. Small optimisations can have a huge impact on the performance of the code and the speed of execution. Developers can obtain the live base performance of the codes and then analyse it to understand how much time is spent by the CPU and processing selectors. Then, according to the memory being used by the targeted objects, developers can choose to optimise certain areas.
Using Formatters
Formatters allow developers to share their projects with teams that can be using different styles, rulesets, and guidelines. This promotes code reusability across platforms as well as consistent debugging and upgrades.
Using async or await
Nested callbacks prove to be a challenge for ease of readability. Using tools or async/await provides an edge when it comes to readability. This allows for easy sharing of codes and promotes team involvement. This also allows better debugging in the future.
Conclusion:
When writing JavaScript, developers should keep certain factors in mind, especially the environment they will be working in and the frameworks that will be used. The best framework and tools depend on the requirement and the context, however, understanding the target browsers, the complexity of the requirement, scalability, and the need for maintenance can help developers figure out the best approach to go about with their JavaScript codes.
The architecture required for the application and the number of people working on the project must be taken into consideration as well when deciding upon the best approach to meet the least amount of hurdles and errors.
