7 Ways to Write CSS in a React App

🎨There are seven different ways to write CSS in a React app: global CSS, CSS modules, CSS preprocessors, CSS-in-JS libraries, utility class libraries, component libraries.

📦Global CSS is the most basic way to style a React app, but it doesn't scale well and can result in naming conflicts and large CSS bundles.

🔗CSS modules scope CSS to individual components, avoiding naming conflicts and reducing bundle size. They also support composition to import and override code from other modules.

📝CSS preprocessors like Sass provide additional features like variables, mixins, and functions to make CSS code more efficient and concise.

💅CSS-in-JS libraries like styled-components and Emotion allow you to write CSS directly in your JavaScript code, enabling dynamic styles based on application state.

What is the best way to write CSS in a React app?

—The best way to write CSS in a React app depends on your project requirements and personal preferences. Consider factors like scalability, code organization, learning curve, and tooling support.

Are utility class libraries like Tailwind CSS recommended?

—Utility class libraries like Tailwind CSS can be a powerful and efficient way to style a React app. However, they require additional tooling and may result in larger bundle sizes due to unused classes.

What are some popular component libraries for React?

—Some popular component libraries for React include Bootstrap, Material-UI, Chakra UI, and Ant Design. These libraries provide pre-built components and styles, making it easier to create a visually appealing UI.

Can I mix and match different CSS writing approaches in a React app?

—Yes, you can mix and match different CSS writing approaches in a React app. Choose the approaches that work best for your specific use cases and project requirements.

How can I optimize CSS bundle size in a React app?

—To optimize CSS bundle size in a React app, consider using techniques like CSS minification, tree shaking, and purging unused CSS classes. Additionally, choose a writing approach that allows for efficient styling, such as CSS modules or utility class libraries with purging capabilities.

00:00Introduction to different ways to write CSS in a React app.

03:11Discussing the limitations of global CSS and the benefits of CSS modules for scoping and reducing bundle size.

04:57Exploring CSS preprocessors like Sass to add additional features like variables and mixins.

05:55Introducing CSS-in-JS libraries like styled-components and Emotion to write CSS directly in JavaScript code and enable dynamic styles based on application state.

06:59Highlighting utility class libraries like Tailwind CSS and their pros and cons.

07:47Mentioning component libraries for React like Bootstrap, Material-UI, Chakra UI, and Ant Design as pre-built style and component solutions.

08:55Explaining that different approaches can be mixed and matched based on project requirements and personal preferences.

09:50Concluding the video and inviting viewers to check out full project courses on fireship.io.