What is tsconfig.json?

tsconfig.json is the configuration file for TypeScript projects. It tells the TypeScript compiler how to compile your code, what files to include, and what JavaScript version to target.

What does 'strict' mode do?

Strict mode enables all strict type-checking options including strictNullChecks, strictFunctionTypes, and noImplicitAny. It catches more bugs but requires more explicit typing.

What target should I use?

Use ES2020 or ES2021 for modern environments (Node 14+, modern browsers). Use ES5 for legacy browser support. ES2022 is good for Node 16+ and cutting-edge browsers.

What's the difference between CommonJS and ESNext modules?

CommonJS uses require/module.exports (Node.js traditional). ESNext uses import/export (modern JavaScript). Use ESNext for new projects, CommonJS for older Node.js compatibility.

Should I enable declaration files?

Enable declaration (.d.ts) files if you're building a library that others will use. They provide type information for TypeScript users of your package.

What does moduleResolution do?

moduleResolution controls how TypeScript finds modules. 'Node' mimics Node.js resolution. 'Bundler' is for modern bundlers like Vite, webpack, or esbuild.

What is esModuleInterop?

esModuleInterop allows default imports from CommonJS modules (import x from 'module' instead of import * as x). Enable it for better compatibility with npm packages.

Should I use paths for aliases?

Path aliases like @/* make imports cleaner and avoid long relative paths. Remember to configure your bundler or ts-node to understand these aliases too.

What files should I exclude?

Typically exclude node_modules, dist/build output, and test files from compilation. Include patterns for your source files (usually src/**/*.ts).

What's the difference between include and files?

include uses glob patterns to match files. files lists specific files exactly. Use include for most projects; files only when you need precise control over compilation.

TSConfig Generator - TypeScript Configuration Builder

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TSConfig Generator - TypeScript Configuration Builder

Quick Presets

Compiler Options

Strict Mode

Interop & Emit

React/JSX (Optional)

Include/Exclude

tsconfig.json

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