Fixing React Table Not Refreshing When Array Changes in useState

Learn how to solve the issue of a `React Table` that doesn't update automatically when data changes. This guide includes steps to implement effective state management.
---

Visit these links for original content and any more details, such as alternate solutions, comments, revision history etc. For example, the original title of the Question was: React Table not updating when array change in useState

If anything seems off to you, please feel free to write me at vlogize [AT] gmail [DOT] com.
---
Fixing React Table Not Refreshing When Array Changes in useState

When working with React, one common problem developers encounter is updating the UI when the underlying data changes. If you find that your React Table is not refreshing when arrays in useState change, you're not alone! In this guide, we'll dive into the issue, exploring the root cause and providing a clear, step-by-step solution.

The Problem: Table Not Updating

In the provided code snippet, the developer is using useState to manage data in a registration component. While sorting functionality works well, modifying the mainData prop (by adding or removing records) does not trigger the table to refresh automatically, requiring a manual page reload.

This can lead to a frustrating user experience, as users will not see the most current data unless they refresh the page.

Why Is This Happening?

The Solution: Use of useEffect

Step-by-Step Implementation

Let's integrate useEffect into your component:

Import useEffect: Make sure you have useEffect imported from React.

Set Up useEffect: Inside your component, add a useEffect that updates your local state whenever mainData changes.

Here's the revised code implementing the above steps:

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

Key Components of the Solution

useEffect Hook:

The useEffect function runs every time the mainData prop changes, ensuring that setData updates the local state with the latest data.

Dependency Array:

The second argument to useEffect is an array of dependencies. Here, [mainData] means the effect will run whenever mainData changes.

Conclusion

By using the useEffect hook, you can efficiently manage state updates in your component, allowing your React Table to reflect changes instantly without requiring a manual page reload. This approach not only improves user experience but also adheres to React's principle of keeping the UI in sync with the state.

Implementing this small change in your logic can significantly enhance the functionality of your table in React. Happy coding!