How to Properly Render Nodes in a JavaScript Template Literal?

Discover an efficient way to render NodeList into HTML using JavaScript. Learn how to avoid common pitfalls and use best practices when working with template literals.
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How to Properly Render Nodes in a JavaScript Template Literal?

JavaScript has transformed the way we manipulate HTML documents, especially with the use of template literals. But what do you do when you want to render a list of nodes (elements) using a template literal and instead get unexpected results? If you're facing the issue where your NodeList converts to [object NodeList], this guide is for you.

The Problem

You may have a function that aims to generate HTML content but gives you unexpected output. For example, your JavaScript function might look like this:

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

Here, nodes is an array of <li> elements created using createElement and appended to your NodeList. However, when you execute generateStuff(nodes), it returns something like <ul>[object NodeList]</ul>, rather than a nicely rendered list.

Why This Happens

The reason behind this bizarre output is that when you try to directly interpolate a NodeList into a template literal, JavaScript converts it to its string representation – [object NodeList]. This is certainly not the HTML format you want. Furthermore, you might be concerned about losing event handlers or performance during manipulation.

The Solution

Using OuterHTML for Rendering Nodes

To properly render your nodes within the template literal, you can convert the NodeList to an array and utilize the outerHTML property on each node. Here's an enhanced version of your function:

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

In this solution:

We extract outerHTML for each node, allowing it to be rendered correctly within the list.

Remember!

This method, while functional, might lead to performance issues primarily because it "loses" any event listeners and may not be the cleanest way to manage your DOM elements.

Direct Node Appending (Better Practice)

Instead of using template literals, consider appending nodes directly to the DOM. Here’s a cleaner, more efficient way to achieve this:

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

In this method:

You create a new <ul> element and append all li nodes directly, preserving their properties and event listeners.

This is more efficient as it directly manipulates the DOM without involving string interpolations or conversions.

Handling Nested Structures

If your structure is complex (e.g., your <ul> is inside multiple containers), you might have to do a bit more work. However, it can be easily managed:

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

In this approach:

You first construct the new HTML structure in a separate body element.

You append nodes to the intended <ul> and replace the original body. This method allows for nested structure management without much hassle.

Conclusion

Rendering a NodeList into the desired HTML format can be tricky with direct string manipulations, but with the right techniques, you can do it efficiently. Whether by directly appending nodes or constructing a new DOM structure, it is important to consider readability, performance, and maintainability of your code.

Do you have additional tips or experiences related to working with NodeLists in JavaScript? Please share your thoughts in the comments below!