Accessing setup's Inner State in Vue.js without Exposing It via data

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Understanding the Problem

Consider the following example of a component called Foo:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

In this example, a reactive number is created inside the setup function. The challenge here is that you wish to access this number from outside the Foo component without exposing it explicitly via the data option.

The Common Misstep: Using data

A common workaround you might consider is to use the data function to expose the internal state like so:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

While this approach works, it might feel cumbersome, especially when you are more inclined to leverage the capabilities of the Composition API.

A Better Way: Using the expose Method

Here’s How You Can Do It:

Let’s modify the Foo component to use the expose method:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

Accessing the Exposed State

Now, in the parent component, you can access Foo's number state directly using the reference you've established:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

Benefits of Using expose

Clarity: Your state management is more explicit and clear.

Simplicity: It reduces the need to create separate data properties just for external access.

Composition API Alignment: It aligns better with the spirit of the Composition API, allowing you to manage state and lifecycle more naturally.

Conclusion

By applying this method, you'll have full control over your component's internal state while still allowing necessary external access when needed. Happy coding!