What is the useEffect hook in React and how do I use it?

What is the useEffect hook in React and how do I use it?

The useEffect hook lets you perform side effects in function components. It runs after every render by default.

Can you give me an example of how to use it?

Sure! Here's a simple example: useEffect(() => { console.log('Component mounted'); }, []); This runs once after the component mounts.

What if I want to run it when a specific state changes?

You can pass the state variable in the dependency array. For example: useEffect(() => { console.log('State changed'); }, [myState]);

Are there any common pitfalls to avoid when using useEffect?

Yes, a common pitfall is forgetting to include dependencies in the array, which can lead to stale closures.