Next.js - Response Helpers

Response helpers in Next.js provide convenient methods for sending various types of responses from API routes, including JSON, redirects, and error messages, simplifying the development of API endpoints.

1. Sending JSON Responses

Next.js provides a res.json() method to send JSON responses from API routes, allowing developers to easily return JSON data to clients.

// pages/api/data.js
export default function handler(req, res) {
  const data = { name: 'John', age: 30 };
  res.json(data);
}

In this example, the API route returns a JSON object containing user data.

2. Redirecting Requests

Next.js allows developers to perform redirects using the res.redirect() method, enabling easy redirection of clients to other URLs.

// pages/api/redirect.js
export default function handler(req, res) {
  res.redirect('/new-page');
}

In this example, the API route redirects clients to the /new-page URL.

3. Sending Error Responses

Next.js provides a res.status() method to send error responses with custom status codes and messages, facilitating error handling in API routes.

// pages/api/error.js
export default function handler(req, res) {
  res.status(404).json({ error: 'Resource not found' });
}

In this example, the API route returns a 404 error with a JSON payload containing an error message.

Conclusion

Response helpers in Next.js offer convenient methods for sending JSON responses, performing redirects, and handling errors in API routes. By utilizing these response helpers, developers can streamline the development process and enhance the functionality of their Next.js applications.

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