Frameworks Flashcards

What is the virtual DOM in React, and what problem does it solve?

Answer: An in-memory representation of the UI that minimizes expensive direct DOM manipulations

The virtual DOM is a lightweight in-memory copy of the real DOM that React uses to batch and minimize direct DOM updates for better performance.

In Django, what is the purpose of the `migrations` directory in an app?

Answer: Contains files that track and apply changes to database schema over time

Django migration files record schema changes so they can be applied consistently across different environments and tracked in version control.

Which Vue.js Composition API function is equivalent to the Options API's `computed` property?

Answer: computed()

The computed() function in the Composition API creates a reactive reference whose value is derived from other reactive state, just like Options API computed properties.

What is the main architectural pattern used by Angular?

Answer: Component-based with MVC influences

Angular uses a component-based architecture with strong MVC influences, where components serve as controllers that connect templates (views) to services (models).

In React, what is prop drilling and how is it typically solved?

Answer: Passing props through many intermediate components; solved with Context API or state management

Prop drilling occurs when data must pass through many component layers; the Context API or libraries like Redux solve this by providing global state access.

What does Rails' 'Convention over Configuration' principle mean?

Answer: Developers follow framework defaults to avoid boilerplate configuration

Convention over Configuration means Rails assumes sensible defaults (file naming, folder structure, database columns) so developers write less explicit configuration.

Which Next.js rendering strategy fetches data on every request and is never cached?

Answer: Server-Side Rendering (SSR) with getServerSideProps

getServerSideProps runs on every request, making it true SSR—ideal for pages that need real-time data but unsuitable for high-traffic pages due to server load.