Debouncing is a method that waits for a certain time before executing a function after the final event. In the reaction, it is often applied to deal with rapidly changing inputs (such as search fields) to reduce unnecessary API calls and increase performance.

Example Use Case: A user is typing in a search box. Without debouncing, every keystroke triggers an API call. With debouncing, the API call only happens after the user stops typing for a short duration.

Reduces API calls by waiting for user input to stabilize.

Improves performance by preventing unnecessary re-renders.

Enhances user experience by reducing lag and flickering UI updates.

1) Using setTimeout (Basic Approach)

A simple way to implement debouncing is using setTimeout inside useEffect:

How It Works:

• The setTimeout function waits for 500ms before updating debouncedQuery.
• If the user types again within 500ms, the timer resets (previous setTimeout is cleared).
• This ensures that the API call (or any heavy computation) only happens once the user stops typing.

2) Using Lodash debounce (Recommended for Complex Apps)

For more flexibility, use Lodash’s debounce function:

Why Use Lodash Debounce?

Cleaner code : No need to manage timeouts manually.

Optimized performance : Avoids unnecessary function re-creation using useCallback().

 When to Use Debouncing in React?

• Search inputs (e.g., filtering product lists)
• Autocomplete suggestions
• Window resizing events
• API calls on user input

• Debouncing is also important for the optimization of React apps by mitigating unnecessary calls to functions. With or without Lodash debounce or setTimeout, its proper use can make all the difference for both efficiency and user experience.

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