TypeScript – What is it and when is it used?
What actually is TypeScript? The programming language was developed by Microsoft in 2012 and is now a proven language for programmers and coders. Based on JavaScript, it can be used in a variety of ways. In the following article, you will find out exactly what the programming language is, where it is used and what the advantages and disadvantages are.
What is TypeScript?
TypeScript is a programming language developed by Microsoft. Unlike conventional languages such as JavaScript or Java, it is based on the concept of static typing. This means that each variable has a specific type, e.g. string, boolean or number. This enables better error analysis and faster development. It is also open source and therefore free to use.
Overview of the programming language:
- TypeScript is a free, open source programming language from Microsoft.
- It is an extension of JavaScript and has additional functions such as typing and class definitions.
- The programming language can be integrated into all modern browsers, the Node.js server and Visual Studio code.
- It is a typed superset of JavaScript that can be compiled to simple JavaScript.
- The files usually have to be converted into JavaScript files before they can be executed.
When is TypeScript used?
There are various situations in which the programming language can be advantageous:
- If you are working on a large project with many developers, it can help to create a consistent code base and avoid errors that can occur when different developers use different JavaScript conventions.
- TypeScript can also be used for the development of Angular applications. This is because Angular’s own development language is based on JavaScript.
- Finally, it can also be used for cross-platform development, as it can be compiled in both JavaScript and native code.
In general, TypeScript is a good choice for any situation where you want to improve the maintainability or scalability of your codebase.
How was TypeScript created?
Microsoft originally developed TypeScript in-house to simplify the development of large JavaScript applications. It was then published as an open source project on GitHub in October 2012. Unlike many other open source projects, Microsoft is still developing the programming language and distributing it under the MIT licence.
Over the years, the language has become a popular tool for the development of JavaScript applications.
Microsoft and the TS community have worked together to make it a powerful tool for JavaScript application development.
TypeScript is now used by many companies and organisations to develop large JavaScript applications. Some of the better-known users include Google, Facebook, Netflix and Microsoft itself.
Pros and cons of TypeScript
Below we list numerous advantages and disadvantages that speak for and against the programming language:
Pros
- TypeScript is an open source programming language, which means it is free to use and free of charge.
- The developer language offers increased ease of development thanks to features such as IntelliSense and type checking.
- There is compatibility with the JavaScript code so that existing code libraries can continue to be used.
- TypeScript supports object-oriented programming (OOP), which makes the transition easier for developers who are proficient in other languages.
Cons
- It can be difficult for beginners to learn as it requires a good understanding of JavaScript.
- Compilation can be slow, especially compared to languages such as Go or Java.
React and TypeScript
React is a popular JavaScript library for creating user interfaces. Although React itself does not require TypeScript, it is very common to use it in React projects. TypeScript is a typed superset of JavaScript that can be compiled to plain JavaScript.
Using both together brings several advantages, including:
- Static type checking
- Early errors and warnings
- Better code completion and IntelliSense
- Better predictable code behaviour
- Greater reusability of the code
- Improved overall experience for developers
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