tsconfig basics

Learn compiler options with tsconfig.json.

What is tsconfig.json?

tsconfig.json is the configuration file that specifies the TypeScript compiler's options. It defines which files to compile, the output folder, and the language target.

{
  "compilerOptions": {
    "target": "ES2020",
    "outDir": "./dist"
  }
}

When this file is at the project root, tsc reads options from it.

The target option

target sets the version of the JavaScript that TypeScript produces. "ES5" produces code compatible with old browsers; "ES2020" keeps modern features.

{
  "compilerOptions": {
    "target": "ES5"
  }
}

A lower target means wider compatibility but a larger output.

Exercise Two-parameter function

Write a function named hesapla. Its two parameters are a: number and b: number, its return type is number. Its body returns a + b. Then print the result of hesapla(10, 20) with console.log.

Show example solution

function hesapla(a: number, b: number): number {
  return a + b;
}
console.log(hesapla(10, 20));

Test yourself

What is the role of tsconfig.json?
- Specifies compiler options
- Lists package dependencies
- Defines test commands
- Configures Git settings
Show answer

Specifies compiler options — tsconfig.json tells tsc which files to compile, the target JS version, and the output folder. The package list lives in package.json.

The target value

{
  "compilerOptions": {
    "target": "____"
  }
}

Show answer

{
  "compilerOptions": {
    "target": "ES2020"
  }
}

tsconfig parts

compilerOptions

Compiler settings
target

JS version
outDir

Output folder
tsconfig.json

Configuration file

Next lesson: Summary - TypeScript basics

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