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Data types in TypeScript

Last Updated : 21 Jan, 2025
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In TypeScript, a data type defines the kind of values a variable can hold, ensuring type safety and enhancing code clarity.

  • Primitive Types: Basic types like number, string, boolean, null, undefined, and symbol.
  • Object Types: Complex structures including arrays, classes, interfaces, and functions.

Primitive Types

Primitive types are the most basic data types in TypeScript. They represent simple, immutable values and are directly assigned.

Type Keyword Description
Number number Represents both integer and floating-point numbers.
String string Represents textual data.
Boolean boolean Represents logical values: true or false.
Null null Represents the intentional absence of any object value.
Undefined undefined Represents an uninitialized variable.
Symbol symbol Represents a unique, immutable value, often used as object keys.
BigInt bigint Represents integers with arbitrary precision.

Object Types

Object types are more complex structures that can contain multiple values and functions. They are mutable and can be manipulated after creation.

Type Description
Object Represents any non-primitive type; however, its use is discouraged in favor of more specific types.
Array Represents a collection of elements of a specific type.
Tuple Represents an array with a fixed number of elements of specific types.
Enum Represents a set of named constants, allowing for a collection of related values.
Function Represents a callable entity; can define parameter and return types.
Class Defines a blueprint for creating objects with specific properties and methods.
Interface Describes the shape of an object, specifying property names and types.

Advanced Types

TypeScript also offers advanced types that provide additional capabilities for complex type definitions:

Type Description
Union Types Allows a variable to hold one of several types, providing flexibility in type assignments.
Intersection Types Combines multiple types into one, requiring a value to satisfy all included types.
Literal Types Enables exact value types, allowing variables to be assigned specific values only.
Mapped Types Creates new types by transforming properties of an existing type according to a specified rule.

Best Practices of Using Data types in TypeScript

  • Use let and const Instead of var: Prefer let and const for block-scoped variables to avoid issues with hoisting and scope leakage.
  • Avoid the any Type: Refrain from using any as it bypasses type checking; opt for specific types to maintain type safety.
  • Leverage Type Inference: Allow TypeScript to infer types when possible, reducing redundancy and enhancing code readability.
  • Utilize Utility Types: Employ built-in utility types like Partial<T> and Readonly<T> to create flexible and readable type definitions.

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