React Best Practices

Component Structure

  • Use functional components over class components
  • Keep components small and focused
  • Extract reusable logic into custom hooks
  • Use composition over inheritance
  • Implement proper prop types with TypeScript
  • Split large components into smaller, focused ones

Hooks

  • Follow the Rules of Hooks
  • Use custom hooks for reusable logic
  • Keep hooks focused and simple
  • Use appropriate dependency arrays in useEffect
  • Implement cleanup in useEffect when needed
  • Avoid nested hooks

State Management

  • Use useState for local component state
  • Implement useReducer for complex state logic
  • Use Context API for shared state
  • Keep state as close to where it's used as possible
  • Avoid prop drilling through proper state management
  • Use state management libraries only when necessary

Performance

  • Implement proper memoization (useMemo, useCallback)
  • Use React.memo for expensive components
  • Avoid unnecessary re-renders
  • Implement proper lazy loading
  • Use proper key props in lists
  • Profile and optimize render performance

Forms

  • Use controlled components for form inputs
  • Implement proper form validation
  • Handle form submission states properly
  • Show appropriate loading and error states
  • Use form libraries for complex forms
  • Implement proper accessibility for forms

Error Handling

  • Implement Error Boundaries
  • Handle async errors properly
  • Show user-friendly error messages
  • Implement proper fallback UI
  • Log errors appropriately
  • Handle edge cases gracefully

Testing

  • Write unit tests for components
  • Implement integration tests for complex flows
  • Use React Testing Library
  • Test user interactions
  • Test error scenarios
  • Implement proper mock data

Accessibility

  • Use semantic HTML elements
  • Implement proper ARIA attributes
  • Ensure keyboard navigation
  • Test with screen readers
  • Handle focus management
  • Provide proper alt text for images

Code Organization

  • Group related components together
  • Use proper file naming conventions
  • Implement proper directory structure
  • Keep styles close to components
  • Use proper imports/exports
  • Document complex component logic