nodejs-best-practices

Node.js Best Practices

Principles and decision-making for Node.js development in 2025. Learn to THINK, not memorize code patterns.

When to Use

Use this skill when making Node.js architecture decisions, choosing frameworks, designing async patterns, or applying security and deployment best practices.

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⚠️ How to Use This Skill

This skill teaches decision-making principles, not fixed code to copy.

• ASK user for preferences when unclear
• Choose framework/pattern based on CONTEXT
• Don't default to same solution every time

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Principles by topic

Read the file for the decision at hand; each holds the original numbered sections.

• Choosing a framework, runtime, or module system → FRAMEWORK-AND-RUNTIME.md (§1–2)
• Layering, error handling, async patterns → ARCHITECTURE-ERRORS-ASYNC.md (§3–5)
• Validation, security, testing → VALIDATION-SECURITY-TESTING.md (§6–8)

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10. Anti-Patterns to Avoid

❌ DON'T:

• Use Express for new edge projects (use Hono)
• Use sync methods in production code
• Put business logic in controllers
• Skip input validation
• Hardcode secrets
• Trust external data without validation
• Block event loop with CPU work

✅ DO:

• Choose framework based on context
• Ask user for preferences when unclear
• Use layered architecture for growing projects
• Validate all inputs
• Use environment variables for secrets
• Profile before optimizing

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11. Decision Checklist

Before implementing:

• Asked user about stack preference?
• Chosen framework for THIS context? (not just default)
• Considered deployment target?
• Planned error handling strategy?
• Identified validation points?
• Considered security requirements?

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Remember: Node.js best practices are about decision-making, not memorizing patterns. Every project deserves fresh consideration based on its requirements.