How to Create a React App with TypeScript Using npx

Introduction

Creating a React app with TypeScript is simple with npx. In this guide, I'll walk you through the steps to get your project up and running. Let's dive in!

What You Need

Before we start, make sure you have the following:

• Node.js: Install Node.js on your computer if you haven’t done so already. You can download it from nodejs.org.
• Terminal or Command Prompt: You will use this to type your commands.

Step 1: Open Your Terminal

First, you need to open your terminal or command prompt. This is where you will type the commands to create your React app.

Step 2: Create Your React App

Here's the thing. To create a new React app with TypeScript, you will use the following command:

npx create-react-app my-app --template typescript

What this does is tell npx to use the create-react-app package to generate a new project called my-app with the TypeScript template. You can replace my-app with any name you like.

Step 3: Go to Your Project Folder

Once the command runs and your app is created, you need to navigate to your project folder. Type:

cd my-app

This command changes your current directory to the folder of your new app. Now, you are inside your project and ready to do some coding!

Step 4: Start the Development Server

Next, you should start the development server. This lets you see your app in the browser. To start it, type:

npm start

This command will start your app and open it in your default web browser. If everything is set up right, you should see your new React app running!

Understanding the Project Structure

When you create your app, it comes with a basic structure. Here’s a quick look at what you’ll find:

• node_modules: This folder contains all your app's dependencies.
• public: Files in this folder are served as static files. The index.html file is here.
• src: This is where you will write your code. It has an App.tsx file, which is the main component.
• package.json: This file tracks your app's dependencies and scripts.

Writing Your First Component

Now, let’s write a simple component. Open the src/App.tsx file. Replace its contents with this code:

import React from 'react';

const App: React.FC = () => {
  return (
    <div>
      Hello, TypeScript with React!
    </div>
  );
};

export default App; 

This code creates a new functional component. It displays a heading saying "Hello, TypeScript with React!" Save the file and check your browser to see the changes.

Benefits of Using TypeScript with React

Using TypeScript with React has some great benefits:

• Type Safety: TypeScript helps catch errors during development, making your code safer.
• Better Tooling: You'll get better support from your code editor, with features like autocompletion.
• Clearer Code: Types make your code easier to understand for you and others working on it.

Conclusion

Creating a React app with TypeScript using npx is straightforward. By following the steps above, you’ve set up your project and written your first component. Keep exploring and building your app. With TypeScript, you're on your way to writing cleaner and safer code!

Happy coding!