Developing forms in Angular 5 involves the decision of either constructing a specific model for the form group inputs or opting for a more generic variable with two

Question

Developing forms in Angular 5 involves the decision of either constructing a specific model for the form group inputs or opting for a more generic variable with two

As a newcomer to Angular, I've noticed that most courses and tutorials recommend using a model or interface for form data. However, I have found it more efficient and straightforward to just use a generic variable with two-way data binding.

Could someone please clarify the importance of defining a model for form data?

Instead of utilizing:

  attorney: any = {
  };

Many tutorials suggest:

attorney: Attorney = {...}
//where Attorney is a class with various parameters

Feel free to check out my code implementation below.

https://stackblitz.com/edit/angular-xkcgng?file=app%2Fapp.component.html

angular typescript angular5 angular-reactive-forms

Answer 1

Answer №1

While it is possible to use any for any variable, field, or parameter in TypeScript, doing so poses a risk as it removes the safety provided by the compiler.

interface Lawyer {
    name: string
}
class Company {
    lawyer: Lawyer = {
        Name: 'Test' // results in a compile time error, which is desirable
    }
}

By using any, you open up the ability to access any field on an object, potentially leading to errors.

lawyer: any= {
    Name: 'Test' // results in a compile time error, demonstrating its benefit
    age: 10
}
console.log(this.name + ' '+this.age.trim('0')) // instead of catching this error at compile time, it will result in a runtime error

Answer 2

While it is possible to use any for any variable, field, or parameter in TypeScript, doing so poses a risk as it removes the safety provided by the compiler.

interface Lawyer {
    name: string
}
class Company {
    lawyer: Lawyer = {
        Name: 'Test' // results in a compile time error, which is desirable
    }
}

By using any, you open up the ability to access any field on an object, potentially leading to errors.

lawyer: any= {
    Name: 'Test' // results in a compile time error, demonstrating its benefit
    age: 10
}
console.log(this.name + ' '+this.age.trim('0')) // instead of catching this error at compile time, it will result in a runtime error

Answer 3

Answer №2

There is no strict rule on how to approach this issue. Whether you opt for a custom type or stick with using 'any', the decision is up to you.

It's important to consider the advantages and disadvantages of each method. @Titan presents a strong case for utilizing a custom type, as it allows the compiler to handle the heavy lifting for you.

The key is to choose the approach that aligns best with your preferences. If there's no compelling reason not to use 'any' in your situation and it simplifies your workflow, then go ahead and use 'any'. However, when 'any' becomes unsuitable and a custom type would be more effective, feel free to make the switch.

You could also experiment with both options to determine which one better suits the specific feature you're developing.

That said, in your StackBlitz demonstration, you seem to be combining template-driven forms with reactive forms. If you're employing the 'FormBuilder', avoid using 'ngModel' to connect to your properties within the same form object values. Instead, utilize 'formControlName' or similar methods. When dealing with plain objects, 'ngModel' may be necessary as it provides the binding needed.

Answer 4

There is no strict rule on how to approach this issue. Whether you opt for a custom type or stick with using 'any', the decision is up to you.

It's important to consider the advantages and disadvantages of each method. @Titan presents a strong case for utilizing a custom type, as it allows the compiler to handle the heavy lifting for you.

The key is to choose the approach that aligns best with your preferences. If there's no compelling reason not to use 'any' in your situation and it simplifies your workflow, then go ahead and use 'any'. However, when 'any' becomes unsuitable and a custom type would be more effective, feel free to make the switch.

You could also experiment with both options to determine which one better suits the specific feature you're developing.

That said, in your StackBlitz demonstration, you seem to be combining template-driven forms with reactive forms. If you're employing the 'FormBuilder', avoid using 'ngModel' to connect to your properties within the same form object values. Instead, utilize 'formControlName' or similar methods. When dealing with plain objects, 'ngModel' may be necessary as it provides the binding needed.

Developing forms in Angular 5 involves the decision of either constructing a specific model for the form group inputs or opting for a more generic variable with two

Answer №1

Answer №2

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