Building a Modern Web App with React and Node.js
Creating a full-stack web application doesn't need to be complicated. Let me show you how to build a practical project using React for the front end and Node.js for the back end. I'll guide you through making a simple task management system that you can use as a starting point for your own projects.
Project Overview
We'll create a task manager where users can add, edit, delete, and mark tasks as complete. The front end will handle the user interface and interactions, while the back end will manage data storage and API endpoints.
Setting Up the Development Environment
First, make sure you have Node.js installed on your computer. You can get it from nodejs.org. Create two separate folders for our front end and back end code:
Bash
Back End Setup with Node.js and Express
In the server folder, initialize a new project:
Bash
Create a basic server setup in server.js:
Javascript
Creating the Database Structure
We'll use MongoDB with Mongoose to store our tasks. Create a task model:
Javascript
Setting Up the React Front End
Move to the client folder and create a new React project:
Bash
Create a simple task component in React:
Jsx
Connecting Front End to Back End
Create API calls using axios in your React app:
Javascript
Adding Features and Functionality
Let's implement task creation in our React component:
Jsx
Testing the Application
Start both servers: - Run npm start in the client folder
- Run
node server.jsin the server folder
Your task manager should now work! You can add tasks, mark them complete, and delete them. The data persists in your MongoDB database.
Next Steps
You can enhance this project by:
- Adding user authentication
- Implementing task categories
- Adding due dates
- Creating task priorities
- Adding search and filter options
This project serves as a solid foundation for learning full-stack development. The code is straightforward and can be expanded based on your needs.
