How to Use Typed HTML: A Guide to Simplifying HTML with TypeScript

Dec 30, 2023 | Programming

If you’ve ever struggled with HTML templates, Typed HTML offers a refreshing take: you can write HTML templates as easily as you write TypeScript, all while ensuring type safety. Get ready to elevate your web development game without diving into new template languages!

Getting Started with Typed HTML

Before you can experience the ease of Typed HTML, you must install it and configure your TypeScript compiler. Follow these steps:

  • Install Typed HTML:
  • npm install --save typed-html
  • Configure your TypeScript compiler by adding the following to your tsconfig.json file:
  • {
        "compilerOptions": {
            "jsx": "react",
            "jsxFactory": "elements.createElement"
        }
    }
  • Although we’re configuring the compiler to use React, we’re redirecting all JSX elements to Typed HTML’s elements.createElement instead.

Writing Your First Typed HTML Template

Once you have it installed, let’s create a simple template in a file named example.tsx:

import * as elements from 'typed-html';
const world = "world";
const helloWorld = <p>Hello <strong>{world}</strong></p>;
console.log(helloWorld);

This will compile down to plain HTML:

<p>Hello <strong>world</strong></p>

Explaining the Code with an Analogy

Imagine you’re building a LEGO structure. Each block represents a piece of HTML or a JavaScript function. Typed HTML is like having a special instruction manual that not only tells you how to stack your blocks (elements) but ensures that each block fits perfectly (type safety). The element.createElement is your friend, helping you snap those blocks together to form a coherent structure without missing or mismatching parts.

Common Features of Typed HTML

Typed HTML supports a wide range of functionalities through plain TypeScript:

  • Control Flow: You can use conditional templates:
  • <div>{Math.random() > 0.5 ? <strong>yes</strong> : <span>no</span>}</div>
  • Repeating Templates: Use Array methods like map to create lists:
  • const items = ['item1', 'item2'];
    <ul>{items.map(item => <li>{item}</li>)}</ul>

Troubleshooting Common Issues

As with any coding journey, you may face some bumps along the way. Here are common troubleshooting tips:

  • Compilation Errors: Ensure you’re using valid HTML tags and proper TypeScript syntax. Check error messages carefully to identify issues.
  • Type Errors: If a property doesn’t exist on a type, ensure that you’ve defined your custom elements properly.
  • Sanitization Concerns: Typed HTML does not sanitize content. If you need sanitization, consider using libraries like sanitize-html.

For more insights, updates, or to collaborate on AI development projects, stay connected with fxis.ai.

Conclusion

Typed HTML simplifies the way you write HTML by combining traditional HTML with the power of TypeScript. Whether you’re creating components or building full-fledged applications, Typed HTML can be an invaluable tool in your development arsenal.

At fxis.ai, we believe that such advancements are crucial for the future of AI, as they enable more comprehensive and effective solutions. Our team is continually exploring new methodologies to push the envelope in artificial intelligence, ensuring that our clients benefit from the latest technological innovations.

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