TypeScript Learning Guide

Introduction

This guide provides a structured approach to learning TypeScript, divided into lessons. Each lesson covers fundamental concepts, gradually building up to more advanced topics.

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Setup and Requirements

1. Installing Node.js and TypeScript

To run TypeScript files, you need to have Node.js installed. Download and install it from Node.js official website.

After installing Node.js, install TypeScript globally by running:

npm install -g typescript

Verify the installation:

tsc --version

2. Setting Up a TypeScript Project

To create a new TypeScript project, run:

mkdir my-typescript-project && cd my-typescript-project
npm init -y
npm install typescript --save-dev

Initialize a TypeScript configuration file:

tsc --init

This creates a tsconfig.json file, allowing you to customize TypeScript settings.

3. Running TypeScript Files

Create a sample TypeScript file (index.ts):

const message: string = 'Hello, TypeScript!';
console.log(message);

Option 1: Using TypeScript Compiler (tsc)

Compile the file to JavaScript:

tsc index.ts

This generates an index.js file. Run it using Node.js:

node index.js

Option 2: Using ts-node (Alternative Method)

You can also use ts-node to run TypeScript files without compiling manually:

npm install -g ts-node

Run the TypeScript file directly:

ts-node index.ts

This method is useful for quick testing and development.

4. Recommended Code Editor: VS Code

We recommend using Visual Studio Code (VS Code) for TypeScript development. Download it from VS Code official website.

Extensions to Install in VS Code:

• ESLint – Ensures code quality
• Prettier – Formats code automatically
• TypeScript Language Support – Improves TypeScript development experience