Optional initialValue
?
Sometimes, we can see code using reduce
without initialValue
. For example,
const array = [1, 2, 3]; |
According to mdn, it is valid and seems simpler. However, is it a good practice?
Cons Brought by No initialValue
In the real world, array
could be []
. In this case,
const array = []; |
You will got error in production!
Uncaught TypeError: Reduce of empty array with no initial value
Also, imagine that if you have met this code in your work ? What the hell does this reduce
do?
- Join the
string
- Or cumulative summation
- Or other situations?
You would never know until you have read the context.
As you can see, these are the most obvious cons brought by no initialValue
.
- Potential Error
- Unclear semantics
Benefits Brought with initialValue
Instead, if using reduce
with initialValue
. For example, in the above case, we can write like this
const array = []; |
- We would never meet the error!
- It is obvious that
reduce
is using to do the cumulative summation job.
Safer and Clearer!