When should I use useRef in React?

When should I use useRef in React?

You should use useRef when you need to persist a value across renders without causing a re-render.

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

Sure! You can use useRef to access a DOM element directly, like this: const myRef = useRef(null); and then attach it to an element.

What are the benefits of using useRef over useState?

The main benefit is that useRef does not trigger a re-render when the value changes, making it more efficient for certain use cases.

Are there any downsides to using useRef?

Yes, if you rely too much on useRef for state management, it can lead to less predictable code and make debugging harder.