🎓 GraphQL Basics Tutorial

GraphQL is a query language for APIs and a runtime for fulfilling those queries with your existing data. It provides a powerful way to request and manipulate data, offering flexibility and efficiency for both clients and servers.

🌐 What is GraphQL?

GraphQL allows clients to request exactly the data they need, avoiding over-fetching or under-fetching. Unlike REST, it uses a type system to define data structures and enables complex queries with a single request.

Example:

query {
  user(id: 1) {
    name
    email
    posts {
      title
      content
    }
  }
}

🔍 GraphQL Queries

Queries are used to fetch data. They follow a structured syntax:

1. Start with query or mutation.
2. Specify fields and nested relationships.
3. Use arguments to filter results.

Key Concepts:

• Fields: Define what data to retrieve (e.g., name, email).
• Arguments: Pass parameters to queries (e.g., id: 1).
• Fragments: Reuse common query patterns.

Try this GraphQL playground to practice writing queries!

✍️ GraphQL Mutations

Mutations modify data. They are essential for operations like creating, updating, or deleting records.

Example:

mutation {
  createUser(name: "Alice", email: "alice@example.com") {
    id
    name
  }
}

🧱 GraphQL Schema

The schema defines the types and operations available. It acts as a contract between client and server.

Schema Structure:

• type User { id: ID! name: String! email: String }
• query: User
• mutation: CreateUser

For deeper insights, explore our GraphQL Advanced Concepts guide.

🚀 Getting Started

1. Install a GraphQL server (e.g., Apollo Server or Express with GraphQL).
2. Define your schema and resolvers.
3. Test with tools like GraphiQL or Postman.

Happy querying! 🚀