What are the best practices for using constructor functions in JavaScript?

What are the best practices for using constructor functions in JavaScript?

When using constructor functions in JavaScript, it's important to follow a few best practices. First, always use the 'new' keyword when calling a constructor to ensure the correct context. Second, define properties and methods on the prototype to save memory. Lastly, use meaningful names for your constructor functions.

Can you explain why using the 'new' keyword is important?

Using the 'new' keyword is crucial because it creates a new object and sets the context of 'this' within the constructor function to that new object. Without it, 'this' would refer to the global object, leading to unexpected behavior.

What are some common mistakes to avoid with constructor functions?

Common mistakes include forgetting to use 'new', defining properties directly on the constructor instead of the prototype, and not handling inheritance properly. These can lead to performance issues and bugs.

How do constructor functions differ from ES6 classes?

Constructor functions and ES6 classes serve similar purposes, but classes provide a clearer syntax and built-in support for inheritance. Classes also use the 'extends' keyword for inheritance, making the code more readable.