How to Fix the await is only valid in async functions Error in Node.js

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“SyntaxError: await is only valid in async functions and the top-level bodies of modules”, you're not alone. This common issue often arises when developers try to use the await keyword outside of an async function. Let's dive into how you can resolve this and get your login module working smoothly.

Understanding the Problem

When you make calls to asynchronous functions, you typically want to use await to pause execution until that function completes. This is particularly useful when querying a database, like MongoDB in your case. However, for await to work, it must reside within an async function. Here's the relevant part of your code that causes the error:

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

In the code above, the login function is not declared as async. Thus, the use of await generates a SyntaxError. Now let’s focus on how to fix it.

The Solution

To resolve the issue, you need to declare your login function as async. Here’s how to do this effectively:

Step-by-Step Fix

Modify the login function declaration to include async:

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

Ensure Error Handling: Wrap your database calls within a try-catch block to handle any potential errors gracefully. This way, if something goes wrong (like a failed database query), you can manage the error without breaking your application.

Return Appropriate Responses: Make sure that after error handling, you return the appropriate HTTP responses if users aren’t found or their passwords are incorrect, as you currently do.

Complete Example

Here’s the modified login function incorporated into your existing structure:

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

Conclusion

The await keyword is powerful, but it must be used correctly within an async function. By adjusting your login function's structure, you can eliminate the SyntaxError and ensure your user authentication flow works smoothly.

If you continue to face issues or have further questions, don’t hesitate to reach out for more guidance! Happy coding!