A complete guide to introducing TypeScript to React [Step-by-step guide for beginners]

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By incorporating TypeScript into React, you can prevent bugs with type checking, improving development speed and code reliability.
Common concerns include "I don't know how to set it up" and "I'm afraid of migrating to an existing project."
This article assumes first-time users and provides detailed explanations of the specific steps, from creating new JavaScript projects using CRA/Vite to migrating existing JavaScript projects.
We will provide you with implementation steps that you can start practicing today, and you will gain knowledge that you can use immediately for side jobs or in-house projects.

A complete guide to adding TypeScript to your React project

Conclusion: Introducing TypeScript is a winning strategy for development

React and TypeScript are a great match.
Defining types makes the input and output of functions clearer, reducing misunderstandings between developers.
It also provides better code completion and better IDE support.

Things to check before installation

Review the project structure

Please check the following points before implementation.

  • Are you using create-react-app or Vite?
  • Are your Babel or Webpack configurations custom?
  • Should JavaScript files have the extension .js or .jsx?

The implementation method differs depending on the configuration, so let’s first understand the current situation.

Introducing TypeScript to new projects

Starting with CRA

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Starting with Vite

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In both cases, tsconfig.json is automatically generated, allowing you to start development with type definitions in place.

How to migrate existing JS projects

1. Add required packages

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2. Change the file extension

  • .js → .ts
  • .jsx → .tsx

3. Add tsconfig.json

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after that,jsx: "react" Setinclude TosrcSpecify a folder.

ESLint, Prettier and TypeScript Settings

Recommended Settings

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.eslintrc.jsonExample configuration:

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It is also important to adjust the settings so that they do not conflict with Prettier.

Introducing type definitions and how to proceed with type safety

Type your Props and State

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  <>
);

Applying types to API responses

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Common errors during installation and solutions

JSX related errors

  • Solution: In tsconfig.json jsx: "react-jsx" Specify

The type 'any' occurs

  • Solution: Add type annotation or load type definition

Summary: Introducing TypeScript improves development quality

With TypeScript, React development becomes safer and more efficient.
There is an initial learning curve, but once you get over that, you'll be able to write robust code with fewer bugs.
Adopting TypeScript is a very worthwhile step, whether you're looking for a side hustle or to gain credibility within your company.

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