In TypeScript, when we talk about interfaces and types, think of them as blueprints for objects. They help us define what properties and methods an object should have.
Interfaces: Clear Contracts for Objects
Imagine you’re making a house and you need a special drawing to show how it should look. An interface in TypeScript is like that blueprint. It tells us exactly what a specific object should look like.
For example, let’s say we want to define what a person object should have:
interface Person {
name: string;
age: number;
}
Here, we’re saying that every Person object should have a name and an age, and both should follow specific rules.
Types: Handy Aliases for Data
Now, think of types as shortcuts or nicknames for different kinds of data. They’re like naming things to make them easier to remember and use later.
For instance, instead of saying “this is a string,” we can create a nickname for it:
type Name = string;
So, whenever we say Name, TypeScript understands that we mean a string.
Examples for Clarity
Primitive Types:
Say we want to call a string something else, like Address:
type Address = string;
Now, whenever we see an Address, we know it’s talking about a string representing an address.
Combining Types:
Let’s say we want to talk about different ways of transportation:
type Transport = 'Bus' | 'Car' | 'Bike' | 'Walk';
Here, Transport can only be one of these options: Bus, Car, Bike, or Walk.
Function Types:
When we want to describe how a function should look, like adding two numbers:
type AddFunction = (num1: number, num2: number) => number;
It means we need a function that takes two numbers and returns another number.
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Picking the Right Tool
So, when do we use interfaces, and when do we use types? It depends on what we need.
- Use Interfaces when you need a clear definition of what an object should look like, like a blueprint for a house.
- Use Types when you want to create shortcuts for different kinds of data or define specific structures for functions, like nicknames for things or specific instructions.
By understanding these simple differences, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the world of TypeScript and build amazing things with clarity and ease.
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