"React" refers to a UMD global, but the current file is a module

'React' refers to a UMD global, but the current file is a module: A Guide to Troubleshooting and Solving the Issue

👋 Hey there, fellow developers! 👩‍💻👨‍💻

In today's blog post, we will tackle a common error that might seem confusing when migrating to React 4.0 and TypeScript. 🚀 We will discuss the error message "'React' refers to a UMD global, but the current file is a module" 🤷‍♂️ and provide simple solutions to get you back on track. Let's dive in!

Understanding the Error

When you update your project to Create React App 4.0 and start migrating your files to TypeScript, you might notice an error popping up in your TypeScript (TSX) files:

'React' refers to a UMD global, but the current file is a module.
Consider adding an import instead.ts(2686)

💡 What does this mean?

This error occurs when you attempt to use the React global variable without importing it explicitly. In earlier versions of React, you needed to import React from the 'react' package in every component file. However, with Create React App 4.0 and the latest React versions, this repetitive import is no longer necessary. 🎉

Quick and Easy Solution

To fix this error and adhere to the newer React standards, you can take the following steps:

1. Import the required dependencies at the top of your component file:

import React from 'react';

// Other required imports for your component

1. Use React when necessary in your component:

const Users = () => {
    return <>Teachers aka Users</>;
};

export default Users;

1. Rebuild your project and check if the error disappears. 🛠️

By explicitly importing React in your component file, you ensure compatibility with the latest version of React and TypeScript.

💡 Why is this important?

With the shift towards a module-based import system, solo reliance on the global React package can lead to compatibility issues and confusion. Explicit imports not only solve the error but also improve code clarity and maintainability by making your dependencies explicit. 📚

Get Back in the Game!

Now that you understand the error and its solution, you can confidently continue your TypeScript migration journey without encountering the "'React' refers to a UMD global, but the current file is a module" error. 🎉

But hey, don't stop here! 🛑

Share this post with your developer friends who might be struggling with a similar issue. Let's spread the knowledge and help others avoid headaches. 🤝💡

And if you have any questions or want to share your experiences, comment below 👇 We are always excited to hear from our readers and assist you on your coding adventures!

Keep coding and happy Reacting! ✨💻