What are source maps in Webpack and how do they work?

What are source maps in Webpack and how do they work?

Source maps are files that map your minified or compiled code back to the original source code. In Webpack, they help in debugging by allowing you to see the original code in the browser's developer tools.

How do I enable source maps in my Webpack configuration?

To enable source maps in Webpack, you can set the devtool property in your Webpack configuration file. For example, you can use devtool: 'source-map' for production or devtool: 'inline-source-map' for development.

Are there different types of source maps I can use?

Yes, there are several types of source maps in Webpack, such as source-map, inline-source-map, cheap-source-map, and eval-source-map. Each has its own trade-offs in terms of build speed and debugging capabilities.

Can source maps affect the performance of my application?

Yes, using source maps can slightly impact performance, especially in production, as they add extra files to load. However, they are invaluable for debugging, so it's often worth the trade-off.