How to Clear an Array in JavaScript

In JavaScript, there are several ways to clear an array, depending on your requirements. Whether you want to maintain references to the original array or create a completely new empty array, you can choose from the following methods:

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01. Setting the Length to Zero

This method clears the array by setting its length property to zero. This is a straightforward way to empty an array while maintaining references to it.

let myArray = [1, 2, 3, 4, 5];
myArray.length = 0;

console.log(myArray); // Output.[]

Setting the length property to zero removes all elements from the array.

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02. Reassigning to a New Empty Array

If you don't need to maintain references to the original array, you can clear it by reassigning a new empty array:

let myArray = [1, 2, 3, 4, 5];
myArray = [];

console.log(myArray); // Output.[]

This creates a new empty array, breaking references to the original array.

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03. Using the splice() Method

The splice() method can be used to remove all elements from an array. This method modifies the original array and is useful when you want to retain references:

let myArray = [1, 2, 3, 4, 5];
myArray.splice(0, myArray.length);

console.log(myArray); // Output.[]

The splice() method removes all elements starting from index 0 to the length of the array.

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04. Using a While Loop

A while loop can be used to repeatedly pop elements until the array is empty:

let myArray = [1, 2, 3, 4, 5];

while (myArray.length > 0) {
    myArray.pop();
}

console.log(myArray); // Output.[]

This approach is less efficient but useful for understanding the manual clearing process.

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Conclusion

Clearing an array in JavaScript can be done in several ways, each suited to different scenarios. Understanding these methods allows you to choose the most efficient and appropriate one for your needs.