How to Import an Exported Constant from TypeScript to JavaScript

Learn how to successfully import constants from TypeScript files into JavaScript. This guide provides step-by-step solutions to common import issues, including the unexpected token error.
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How to Import an Exported Constant from TypeScript to JavaScript: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re stuck trying to import a constant from a TypeScript file into a JavaScript file and you're encountering the dreaded "Unexpected token, expected ," error, you're not alone. This problem can be quite common among developers transitioning between TypeScript and JavaScript.

In this post, we will walk through how to effectively import an exported constant from a TypeScript file into your JavaScript file. We will provide practical solutions, breaking them down into clear steps.

Understanding the Issue

Let's first take a look at the constant in your TypeScript file:

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

You wish to import this articleQuery function into your JavaScript file like so:

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

Depending on how your environment is set up, this might yield an error, so let’s explore the solutions.

Solution: Steps to Properly Import TypeScript Constants

To successfully import constants from a TypeScript file into a JavaScript environment, you have a few options:

Option A: Compile TypeScript to JavaScript

Compile the TypeScript File:
You can use the TypeScript compiler to convert the TypeScript file into a JavaScript file. Run this command in your terminal:

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

Use the Generated JavaScript File:

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

Option B: Use tsx, ts-node, or --loader

If you're using tools like tsx, ts-node, or the TypeScript loader feature, you can simplify your imports:

Direct Import without File Extension:
You can import directly without specifying the .ts extension. This will work smoothly with tsx or similar setups:

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

Alternatively, Import as JavaScript:
In some setups, you might need to import the generated .js file:

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

Important Note

You might wonder why you would ever need to import from TypeScript into JavaScript. The integration is usually straightforward, but you may need this for specific scenarios—like if you’re gradually migrating a codebase from JavaScript to TypeScript or integrating with existing JavaScript tooling.

Conclusion

In summary, importing constants from TypeScript files into JavaScript can be done effectively by either compiling the TypeScript files first or utilizing certain tools and configurations that allow TypeScript to be imported seamlessly. Choose the method that suits your project structure and requirements.

If you have any further questions or need more clarification on this process, feel free to leave a comment below! Your feedback could spark a conversation, possibly bringing additional insights into the TypeScript and JavaScript integration process.