pitfalls-express-api

name	pitfalls-express-api
description	Express API conventions and storage patterns. Use when building REST APIs, defining routes, or implementing storage interfaces. Triggers on: Express, router, API route, status code, storage interface.

Express API Pitfalls

Common pitfalls and correct patterns for Express APIs.

When to Use

• Building REST API routes
• Implementing storage interfaces
• Setting HTTP status codes
• Validating request bodies
• Reviewing Express API code

Workflow

Step 1: Verify Route Structure

Check that routes follow REST conventions.

Step 2: Check Status Codes

Ensure correct status codes for each operation.

Step 3: Verify Validation

Confirm input validation middleware is in place.

---

Route Structure

// Public routes
GET  /api/resource          // List
GET  /api/resource/:id      // Get one

// Admin routes (with auth middleware)
POST   /api/admin/resource      // Create (201)
PATCH  /api/admin/resource/:id  // Update (200)
DELETE /api/admin/resource/:id  // Delete (204)

// ✅ Always validate before storage
router.post('/', validateBody(schema), async (req, res) => {
   validated = req.; 
});