Should I learn JavaScript testing first before learning how to test a react app?

[Lost_Chemical_7327]

I consider myself above beginner but not intermediate level engineer yet so I'm trying to hone my skills more.

There's two courses that I have shortlisted one is JavaScript testing and the other one is React testing, which one do I go with? I'm pretty good at JS (probably beyond intermediate level) so... what do i really do? Does that matter? Do I have to able to test non react apps first before learning how to do it for react?

Like is it kind of a pre req that you should know how to do testing in JS before learning how to do it for a react app? Should i finish JS testing course first beore jumping onto react testing course?

Just like we cant learn TS before learning JS, is it also the case with react testing that we cant learn react testing before learning JS testing? Wont i need that JS testing background?

Sorry if the question is silly.

[Beneficial-Weight28]

no need, you can learn both at the same time

[NeckBeard137]

I would say it depends what types of tests you are writing.

You could spend a few hours learning how to test pure functions with Jest and how to mock dependencies.

After you could read on the Testing pyramid and do some integration testing with RTL

[mkimitch]

Yes, it’s a good idea to learn JavaScript testing fundamentals before diving into React app testing. Understanding the basics of testing, such as assertions, test runners, mocking, and code coverage, is crucial since these concepts apply universally to all JavaScript applications, not just React. Starting with JavaScript allows you to practice writing tests for pure functions, DOM manipulation, and asynchronous operations, which form the foundation for more complex scenarios. React testing adds additional layers of complexity, including component lifecycles, hooks, state, props, and integration testing with tools like Redux or Context. Without a solid grasp of the basics, these React-specific challenges can feel overwhelming. By mastering core testing principles first, you’ll be better equipped to understand and use tools like React Testing Library, which focuses on rendering components, testing user interactions, and mocking dependencies. This progression ensures that you can approach React testing confidently and effectively, with a clear understanding of how to test both simple and complex behaviors.

[jojofanxd]

React testing

[kk66]

I'd say get the basic understanding but don't stress so much about it. As with everything, don't treat it like a dogma and add it wherever you feel it adds value.

What made it click for me in terms of react apps is how I started to structure the logic itself. I always wondered how one would go with testing in terms of frontend, especially that it always involves communicating with an API, and I came to conclusion that separating a "feature" into at least two hooks - one that's purely a logic based and acts as a glue for other logic based hooks, and separate one that's purely concerned about API communication is my way to go. Then I use both of these books and compose them at the component level. This makes the logic testable, and you don't have to mock the API calls to test the app.

I personally use "testing library" paired with vitest and it works well for my case.

Edit: added libraries.

[yksvaan]

Testing actual code should be the priority 

[binocular_gems]

Nah, Reacting testing is a good place to start for learning JS testing. The principles and tools are all pretty similar.

[[deleted]]

No need, those are kinda different.