If you are new to the world of web development, then you must have heard the word “MERN Stack”. And you must have the question, “What is MERN Stack and why are all the beginners and full-stack developers crazy about this?”. So this is the guide for you, we bring each and every detail for you, like what is MERN Stack is, how it works, and how you can become a powerful web developer learning MERN.
What is MERN Stack?
MERN Stack is a combination of the four JavaScript-based tools: MongoDB, Express.js, React.js, and Node.js. All four tools are used to make complete web applications in which both the frontend and backend are included.
The main point is that everything is in JavaScript, and mainly JavaScript is used for the frontend part, but we can also use it in the backend and for the database operations. So, if you learn JavaScript, then the whole MERN Stack comes under your control.
Main use of each component:
- MongoDB: It stores data in JSON-like documents.
- Express.js: It handles server-side routing and logic handling.
- React.js: It creates the User Interface (UI).
- Node.js: It runs the server and handles backend logic.
It creates a high-performance, scalable, and maintainable web app when all these are combined.
MongoDB – The Brain of MERN Stack (Data Storage)
MongoDB is an open-source NoSQL database. Traditional SQL databases contain tables, but MongoDB uses JSON-like flexible documents.
It is very useful when your data changes frequently and has a dynamic structure. For example, if you are working on an e-commerce website, then each product can have its own structure – MongoDB can easily handle it.
In MERN Stack, you can use MongoDB to manage user info, form data, product data, and much more in real-time. It can integrate easily with JavaScript, which makes it fast and scalable.
Express.js – The Backend Boss
Express.js is a web framework built on Node.js, which makes backend development fast and easy. You can use Express.js to create APIs, manage routes, and add middlewares for extra functionalities.
Suppose you are creating a login system, then Express.js will be used for creating login routes, handling the requests, and then verifying the data in MongoDB. Everything in JavaScript like the blink of an eye.
In MERN Stack, Express.js is used to get full control over the backend, plus it is lightweight and customizable.
React.js – The UI King
React.js is a frontend library of JavaScript created by Facebook. It uses component-based architecture in which we can break down UI elements into small components.
In MERN Stack, React is used to create UI – forms, buttons, lists, animations, and everything that can be created. React is expertly used to make SPA (Single Page Applications) – everything is updated dynamically without page reloading.
Its Virtual DOM feature makes UI fast and responsive. Cleaner code and UX (User Experience) can be way more amazing using React.
Node.js – Engine of JavaScript
Node.js is a runtime environment in which JavaScript can be used outside the browser, which means it can be used on the server. Node follows an asynchronous, event-driven model, which makes it lightweight and scalable.
In MERN Stack, Node.js runs Express, connects with MongoDB, and handles requests from React. Companies like Netflix, PayPal, LinkedIn, and many more use Node.js for its performance.
The NPM (Node Package Manager) is also a Superpower in that we can use thousands of ready-to-use libraries.
Workflow of MERN Stack
- React.js: User gives input through UI (e.g., form filled by user).
- Express.js + Node.js: Sends form data to the backend and validates it.
- MongoDB: Retrieves or stores the validated data.
- React.js: Receives response from backend, then shows it on UI.
This cycle is seamless, and everything is written in only one language, i.e., JavaScript.
Real World Example: Blogging Platform
Suppose you are creating a Blogging platform, then:
- React.js: The User will read the blog, like it, and comment.
- Node.js + Express.js: It handles login, logout, create-post, and comment API.
- MongoDB: Stores every blog, comment, and user detail.
Using the MERN Stack, we can easily integrate the frontend, backend, and database and build a full-fledged system, and different tools are available for every part.
Benefits of MERN Stack:
- Single Language: From Frontend to Backend, everything in just a single language, i.e., JavaScript.
- Reusable Code: React components can be used again and again.
- Speed & Performance: Node and MongoDB provide fast responses.
- Free & Open Source: No license is required for anything.
- Developer Friendly: Has strong documentation and community.
All these features make the MERN Stack best for developers.
Who uses MERN Stack?
- Facebook – React.js
- Netflix – Node.js
- Uber – Node.js
- Medium – MERN-based Blog System
- Freelancers/Startups – MERN is perfect for making an MVP.
- Many people use MERN Stack to make freelance projects as it provides fast working and gives control over everything.
How to start learning MERN?
- Basic Web Tech – Learn HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
- React.js – Play with components, props, states, and hooks.
- Node.js + Express.js – Learn to build a server and create an API.
- MongoDB – Understand CRUD operations and queries.
- Mini Projects – Create apps like To-Do List, Blog App, Contact Form, etc.
Note: Remember to upload every project on GitHub, which makes your Resume strong.
Some MERN Stack Project Ideas
- To-Do List App
- Expense Tracker
- Recipe Sharing Platform
- Portfolio Website with Admin Panel
- E-commerce Cart System
- Real-time Chat App
- Job Posting Portal
You can make your MERN Stack hands-on strong while working on it.
Check few small projects by clicking here!
Conclusion – MERN Stack is like a Developer friend
If you want to become a web developer in today’s time, then MERN Stack is your perfect companion. The main point is that you can become full-stack using a single language. Practice regularly, create small apps, and try new projects.
MERN Stack helps you to get your dream job or do freelancing, or launch your own SaaS product, making you industry-ready.
So, what are you waiting for? Start your MERN Stack journey now!💻🚀
Happy Coding, Champion!🔥
