How to Fix the SyntaxError: await is only valid in async function in Node.js REST API

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Understanding the Error

The error message clearly states that you're trying to use await in a context where it isn't allowed. In JavaScript, the await keyword can only be used inside functions that are declared as async. When you try to use it in a regular function or callback, you'll run into this syntax error.

The Context of the Problem

In the provided example, the error is arising during user registration because await is used within a callback function that is not declared as async. Here's a simplified version of the relevant part of the code:

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

Solution to the Problem

To resolve this issue, you need to ensure that the await call is inside an async function. Here’s how you can modify the code to get past this error:

Step 1: Make the Callback Function Async

Here’s your corrected code:

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

Step 2: Handle Errors Appropriately

It's also a good idea to handle errors more gracefully. In the updated code, I've added error handling for the hashing process to send a proper response to the client if there’s an error.

Conclusion

By ensuring that your callback function is marked as async, you can smoothly use the await keyword where needed. This small adjustment will not only fix the SyntaxError: await is only valid in async function error but also lead to clean and efficient code for your user registration route.

Don't hesitate to refer back to this guide whenever you run into similar async issues, and happy coding!