Props and Data Flow

Passing props

Send information from one component to another.

8 minutes - Beginner to intermediate

What this means

Props are values passed into a component. They work like function arguments for UI. A parent component gives props, and the child component reads them.

In beginner terms, this topic answers one practical question: "What should I write, and why does React care about it?" Do not try to memorize the syntax first. First understand the idea, then connect the syntax to that idea.

Why it matters

Props let one component be reused with different data. A UserCard can show Ada, Grace, or Linus without copying the component.

When you build real React screens, this idea helps you decide where data should live, what the user should see, and what should happen after an interaction. That is why this lesson is part of the main path instead of being an optional detail.

Step by step

1. Notice the UI problem this topic solves. 2. Look at the smallest possible example. 3. Change one value and predict what should appear. 4. Run the example and compare the result with your prediction. 5. Use the practice task before moving on.

Small example

function Greeting({ name }) {
  return <p>Hello, {name}</p>;
}

Common mistake

Do not change props inside the child component. Props should be treated as read-only information from the parent.

Practice task

Create a CourseCard component that receives title and level props.

Remember this

Props customize components from the outside.

try.it

Examples

Try it: Passing props

Edit this focused React example and run it in the browser preview.

Preview runs React in a sandboxed browser frame, never on the server.

react

editor

preview

Preparing preview...

practice.next

Practice before moving on

check.understanding

Lesson quiz

Login to save progress

You can read lessons without an account, but progress requires login.

Login