How to Dynamically Sort an Array of Objects Based on Given Properties with JavaScript

Learn how to sort JavaScript arrays of objects dynamically using an array of sorting criteria. Simplify your code while preserving flexibility and efficiency.
---

Visit these links for original content and any more details, such as alternate solutions, latest updates/developments on topic, comments, revision history etc. For example, the original title of the Question was: JavaScript sort an array of objects based array of properties

If anything seems off to you, please feel free to write me at vlogize [AT] gmail [DOT] com.
---
Enhancing Your JavaScript Skills: Dynamic Sorting of Objects

Sorting arrays can be a common necessity in programming, especially when dealing with complex datasets. In this guide, we will explore how to dynamically sort an array of objects in JavaScript based on an array of sorting criteria. This approach not only provides flexibility but also helps eliminate hardcoded values in your sorting functions.

The Problem at Hand

Suppose you have a dataset consisting of records that contain names, ages, and job titles. You want to sort these records according to specified criteria — both in ascending and descending order. Here’s a sample dataset:

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

What if you need to sort the records array according to the criteria specified in the order array? You want a solution that can adapt to changes in sorting criteria without rewiring your code. Let's delve into the solution!

The Solution Explained

Step 1: Creating a Sort Function

To achieve this dynamic sorting, we will create a function that takes the sorting order as an argument. This function will return a comparison function that JavaScript’s sort() method can use.

Step 2: The Sorting Logic

The core idea is to loop through the array of sorting criteria (the order array) and apply the appropriate comparison based on whether we’re sorting numerically or alphabetically. Here’s how this is done:

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

Step 3: Implementing the Sort

Now, you can use your sorting function with the sort() method like this:

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

Breakdown of the Code

isFinite(a[key]): Checks if the value for the property being compared is numeric.

a[key].toString().localeCompare(b[key]): Handles string comparisons when the property values are non-numeric.

(direction === 'ascending' ? 1 : -1): Adjusts the sort order based on the specified direction from the order array.

Final Output

When the records array is sorted using this function, you achieve an organized list that reflects the order specified without hardcoding property names. This approach is efficient, scalable, and maintains clean code practices.

Conclusion

Sorting arrays of objects dynamically based on an order array allows for flexibility in how data is presented. This method not only keeps your code clean but also increases its scalability, as new sorting criteria can easily be added. Now, you're equipped with a powerful tool to enhance your JavaScript skill set and tackle similar challenges in future projects.

Remember, whenever you're tasked with dynamically sorting data, consider using a parameterized approach as shown here. Happy coding!