How Redux Handles Immutability
Immutability is a core principle of Redux because it ensures that state changes are predictable, traceable, and easy to debug. Redux enforces immutability through its design, tools, and best practices. Here's how Redux handles immutability effectively:
1. Immutable State Updates
Redux uses pure functions called reducers to manage state updates. Reducers must return a new state object instead of modifying the existing state directly. This is achieved through techniques like:
a. Object Spread Operator
The object spread operator (...
) is used to create shallow copies of objects or arrays and then add or modify properties.
const initialState = { counter: 0 };
const reducer = (state = initialState, action) => {
switch (action.type) {
case 'INCREMENT':
return { ...state, counter: state.counter + 1 }; // Creates a new state object
default:
return state;
}
};
b. Array Methods
Instead of mutating arrays, Redux encourages using non-mutating array methods like map
, filter
, or concat
.
const initialState = { items: [1, 2, 3] };
const reducer = (state = initialState, action) => {
switch (action.type) {
case 'ADD_ITEM':
return { ...state, items…