Prettier is an opinionated code formatter that helps you maintain consistent code formatting across your team. It supports various languages and integrates with popular code editors. In this article, we will explore the features of Prettier and how it can benefit developers of all levels.
Introduction to Prettier
Prettier is a code formatter that automatically formats your code according to predefined rules. It supports a wide range of syntax, including JavaScript, TypeScript, CSS, SCSS, Less, JSX, GraphQL, JSON, and Markdown. Additionally, with the use of plugins, you can also format code in languages like Python, PHP, Swift, Ruby, and Java.
Prettier is highly popular among developers and has been downloaded millions of times. It integrates seamlessly with popular code editors such as VS Code, Sublime Text, and Atom.
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Less Options
One of the advantages of using Prettier is that it limits the number of options available. This eliminates the need for developers to debate over formatting choices, allowing them to focus on writing code. Prettier enforces a consistent code style, similar to the “gofmt” tool in Go, ensuring that code written by different developers looks the same.
Difference with ESLint
While Prettier focuses on code formatting, ESLint is a linter that analyzes code for errors and enforces coding standards. ESLint can be used alongside Prettier to highlight formatting issues, but it offers more configuration options. Prettier offers a standard set of formatting rules, providing a common ground for developers.
Installation
Prettier can be installed using Yarn or npm. It can be used from the command line or integrated into your Git workflows, such as running it on pull requests. If you use a code editor that supports Prettier, you can install a Prettier extension to format your code automatically every time you save.
Here is an example of the Prettier extension for VS Code: Prettier for VS Code
Prettier for Beginners
Prettier is not just for experienced developers or teams; it benefits beginners too. Consistent code formatting helps beginners develop good coding habits from the start. Clean and well-formatted code is essential for readability and maintainability. With Prettier, even a beginner’s code can have a professional look and feel.
Using Prettier allows beginners to produce code that adheres to the style of seasoned developers, giving them a head start in the coding community.
Tags: code formatting, Prettier, ESLint, syntax, code editor, installation, beginners