Solving the Blank Screen Issue when Fetching Data with Next.js and GraphCMS

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Understanding the Problem

Many developers encounter the issue of data not rendering even though their API calls return data correctly. This can be particularly maddening when you're following a guide and everything seems to be in place. The root of the problem often lies in the way the fetched data is incorporated into your component rendering.

The Code in Question

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

At first glance, it seems like everything is in order. The data is being fetched correctly from GraphCMS, but you might notice something very important here: there is no return statement in the .map() method.

Solution: Adding the Return Statement

The reason for the blank screen is straightforward: without a return statement, your component fails to render anything in the UI. When using arrow functions in JavaScript, if an explicit return isn't given, it defaults to returning undefined, which certainly won't help you display anything on the screen!

Here’s the Correct Way to Write the Code

Replace your current .map() function implementation with the following updated version:

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

Key Points to Consider

Return Needed: Make sure to use the return keyword for items you're mapping over to indicate what should be rendered.

Arrow Function Behavior: Remember that for arrow functions, using braces {} without return implies an implicit undefined.

Rendering Components: Ensure that each component in your map is properly returned in parentheses for clarity and readability.

Conclusion

Now, go ahead and give it a try! With this fix, your blog should come to life with the content you've tirelessly curated in GraphCMS.

Happy coding!