Adding TypeScript definition file to an npm package: A step-by-step guide

Is it possible to include typescript definitions (.d.ts files) in a pure javascript project without using TypeScript itself? I'm struggling to find any information on how to do this directly in the package.json.

Answer №1

There is a section in the TypeScript Handbook that discusses how to include typings for an NPM Package. Here is a summary:

Adding Typings for NPM Packages

The TypeScript compiler handles Node module names by following the Node.js module resolution algorithm. It can also load typings that come bundled with npm packages. When trying to find typings for module foo, the compiler follows these rules:

1. Look for the package.json file within the package folder (node_modules/foo/). If found, check the path specified in the typings field. For example, based on this package.json content, the compiler will locate typings at node_modules/foo/lib/foo.d.ts

   {
       "name": "foo",
       "author": "Vandelay Industries",
       "version": "1.0.0",
       "main": "./lib/foo.js",
       "typings": "./lib/foo.d.ts"
   }

2. Check for a file named index.d.ts within the package folder (node_modules/foo/) - this file should contain the package typings.

More details on the module resolution algorithm can be found here.

Important notes for your definition files:

  • They must have the .d.ts extension
  • They should be written as external modules
  • Avoid including triple-slash references

It's crucial for typings not to introduce new compilable elements that could overwrite actual implementation files in the package during compilation. Moreover, loading typings shouldn't contaminate the global scope with conflicting entries from different versions of the same library.

Answer №2

If you're working with Visual Studio 2015 and trying to get it to recognize your definition file, make sure to include the types property in your package.json file.
Learn more about declaration files here.

{
   "name": "awesome",
   "author": "Vandelay Industries",
   "version": "1.0.0",
   "main": "./lib/main.js",
   "types": "./lib/main.d.ts"
}

To properly reference your type definitions in your TypeScript files, use three slashes before including the path:

/// <reference path="../node_modules/../lib/main.d.ts" />


If you're looking for a helpful guide on linking types to your npm package, check out this useful tutorial!

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