TypeScript: JavaScript with Superpowers

TypeScript adds static typing to JavaScript, catching errors before runtime.

Why TypeScript?

• Catch errors early: Type errors found at compile time
• Better IDE support: Autocomplete, refactoring, navigation
• Self-documenting: Types serve as documentation
• Safer refactoring: Compiler catches breaking changes

When to Use TypeScript

• Large codebases with multiple developers
• Long-term projects requiring maintenance
• Teams wanting better tooling
• Projects where bugs are costly

When JavaScript is Fine

• Small scripts and prototypes
• Solo projects with quick turnaround
• Teams unfamiliar with typed languages
• Simple websites without complex logic

TypeScript Example

interface User {
  id: number;
  name: string;
  email: string;
}

function getUser(id: number): User {
  // TypeScript ensures you return the right shape
  return { id, name: "John", email: "john@example.com" };
}

Migration Tips

1. Start with tsconfig.json in strict mode
2. Rename files from .js to .ts gradually
3. Add types to function parameters first
4. Use any sparingly as escape hatch

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