Benefits of Migrating to TypeScript

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 125 views

Introduction

In the core package, all code, including test cases, is primarily written in TypeScript and later converted to JavaScript. This setup allows us to implement an easy fix for existing issues by running only TypeScript test files (*.test.ts) to avoid duplicate test execution. However, one test file packages\core\test\unit\Page\filterIconAssets.test.js, is currently missing a corresponding TypeScript version. In this article, we will explore the benefits of migrating this file to TypeScript and provide a step-by-step guide on how to achieve this optimization.

Benefits of Migrating to TypeScript

Migrating the standalone JavaScript test file to TypeScript will bring several benefits, including:

Improved Code Consistency and Maintainability: By aligning the test file with the rest of the core package, which is primarily written in TypeScript, we can improve code consistency and maintainability.
Removal of Hardcoded Exception: The current fix for #2629 requires a hardcoded exception for the missing TypeScript version of the test file. By migrating the file to TypeScript, we can remove this hardcoded exception and make the code more flexible and maintainable.

Step-by-Step Guide to Migrating the Test File

To migrate the standalone JavaScript test file to TypeScript, follow these steps:

Step 1: Create a New TypeScript File

Create a new file with the same name as the existing JavaScript file, but with a .test.ts extension. For example, filterIconAssets.test.ts.

Step 2: Copy the Existing JavaScript Code

Copy the existing JavaScript code from the filterIconAssets.test.js file and paste it into the new TypeScript file.

Step 3: Update the File Import Statements

Update the file import statements to use the correct TypeScript syntax. For example, import { filterIconAssets } from './filterIconAssets'; instead of const filterIconAssets = require('./filterIconAssets');.

Step 4: Update the Test Function

Update the test function to use the correct TypeScript syntax. For example, describe('filterIconAssets', () => { ... }); instead of describe('filterIconAssets', function() { ... });.

Step 5: Compile the TypeScript File

Compile the TypeScript file using the tsc command. For example, tsc filterIconAssets.test.ts.

Step 6: Update the Test Runner Configuration

Update the test runner configuration to run the new TypeScript test file. For example, update the jest configuration to include the new test file.

Conclusion

Migrating the standalone JavaScript test file to TypeScript will improve code consistency and maintainability, and remove the need for a hardcoded exception in the fix for #2629. By following the step-by-step guide outlined in this article, you can easily migrate the test file to TypeScript and take advantage of the benefits of using TypeScript in your core package.

Related Issues

#2629: Duplicate test execution

Environment

Windows 10
MarkBind version: 5.5.3

Additional Information

This optimization is part of the ongoing effort to improve code consistency and maintainability in the core package.
The migration of the test file to TypeScript will not affect the existing JavaScript code in the core package.
Optimization: Migrate Standalone JavaScript Test Files in Core Package to TypeScript ====================================================================================

Q&A: Migrating Standalone JavaScript Test Files to TypeScript

Q: What is the purpose of migrating the standalone JavaScript test file to TypeScript?

A: The purpose of migrating the standalone JavaScript test file to TypeScript is to improve code consistency and maintainability, and to remove the need for a hardcoded exception in the fix for #2629.

Q: What are the benefits of using TypeScript in the core package?

A: The benefits of using TypeScript in the core package include:

Improved Code Consistency and Maintainability: By using TypeScript, we can improve code consistency and maintainability across the entire core package.
Better Error Handling: TypeScript provides better error handling and type checking, which can help catch errors early in the development process.
Improved Code Completion: TypeScript provides improved code completion, which can help developers write code more efficiently.

Q: How do I migrate the standalone JavaScript test file to TypeScript?

A: To migrate the standalone JavaScript test file to TypeScript, follow these steps:

Create a New TypeScript File: Create a new file with the same name as the existing JavaScript file, but with a .test.ts extension.
Copy the Existing JavaScript Code: Copy the existing JavaScript code from the filterIconAssets.test.js file and paste it into the new TypeScript file.
Update the File Import Statements: Update the file import statements to use the correct TypeScript syntax.
Update the Test Function: Update the test function to use the correct TypeScript syntax.
Compile the TypeScript File: Compile the TypeScript file using the tsc command.
Update the Test Runner Configuration: Update the test runner configuration to run the new TypeScript test file.

Q: What are the common issues that I may encounter during the migration process?

A: Some common issues that you may encounter during the migration process include:

Type Errors: You may encounter type errors if the TypeScript compiler is unable to infer the types of variables or function parameters.
Syntax Errors: You may encounter syntax errors if the TypeScript compiler is unable to parse the code correctly.
Import Errors: You may encounter import errors if the TypeScript compiler is unable to resolve the imports correctly.

Q: How do I troubleshoot common issues during the migration process?

A: To troubleshoot common issues during the migration process, follow these steps:

Check the TypeScript Compiler Output: Check the TypeScript compiler output for any error messages or warnings.
Check the Code for Syntax Errors: Check the code for syntax errors, such as missing semicolons or mismatched brackets.
Check the Import Statements: Check the import statements to ensure that they are correct and up-to-date.
Check the Test Runner Configuration: Check the test runner configuration to ensure that it is correct and up-to-date.

Q: What are the best practices for maintaining the migrated test file?

A: Some best practices for maintaining the migrated test file include:

Regularly Update the Test File: Regularly update the test file to ensure that it remains up-to-date with the latest changes in the codebase.
Use a Consistent Coding Style: Use a consistent coding style throughout the test file to ensure that it is easy to read and maintain.
Use Comments and Documentation: Use comments and documentation to explain the purpose and functionality of the test file.

Conclusion

Migrating the standalone JavaScript test file to TypeScript can improve code consistency and maintainability, and remove the need for a hardcoded exception in the fix for #2629. By following the step-by-step guide outlined in this article, you can easily migrate the test file to TypeScript and take advantage of the benefits of using TypeScript in your core package.