React Library or Framework

The terms 'library' and 'framework' are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct meanings in the context of software development:

1. Library:

• A library is a collection of reusable code modules or functions that can be directly called by an application to perform specific tasks.
• Libraries typically provide functionality for a specific purpose, such as parsing JSON data, handling networking, or rendering user interfaces.
• When using a library, the control flow of the application remains with the developer. The developer decides when and how to use the functions provided by the library.

2. Framework:

• A framework, on the other hand, provides a structure or skeleton for an entire application. It defines the architecture, design patterns, and flow of control for the application.
• Developers build their applications within the framework by providing implementation details for various components or by extending the framework's functionality.
• In contrast to libraries, where the developer calls the library code, in a framework, the flow of control is often inverted. The framework calls the developer's code at specific points, following a predefined structure.

React is a library

React is commonly referred to as a JavaScript library for building user interfaces. Reasons are as follows:

1. React provides a collection of reusable UI components that developers can use to build their interfaces. It's focused on rendering user interfaces and managing the state of those interfaces efficiently.
2. React does not dictate the entire structure or architecture of an application. While it offers guidance on how components should be structured and managed, it doesn't enforce a rigid application structure or control flow.
3. Developers maintain control over how they structure their applications, how they manage application state, and how they integrate React into their overall architecture. React doesn't impose strict control over these aspects, which is more characteristic of a library than a framework.

In summary, React focuses on UI rendering, its lack of strict control over application structure, and its emphasis on component reusability make it more akin to a library rather than a full-fledged framework.