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How to Return Complex Object As Scalar Type In Graphql?

5 minutes read

In GraphQL, when defining a schema and query, the return type of a field is typically a scalar type like String, Int, Boolean, etc. However, there may be cases where you want to return a more complex object instead of a scalar type.


To return a complex object as a scalar type in GraphQL, you can create a custom scalar type for that object. This involves defining a new scalar type in the schema and implementing a resolver function to specify how that scalar type should be serialized and parsed.


Once you have created the custom scalar type and resolver function, you can use it as the return type for your field in the query. This allows you to return complex objects as scalar types in GraphQL and have more control over how they are handled and displayed in the response.


Overall, returning complex objects as scalar types in GraphQL involves creating a custom scalar type and resolver function to serialize and parse the object, and then using that custom scalar type as the return type for the field in the query. This approach can be useful for handling more complex data types in GraphQL queries and responses.


What is a scalar type in GraphQL?

A scalar type in GraphQL is a primitive data type that represents a single atomic value, such as a string, number, boolean, or ID. Scalar types are used to define the shape of the data returned by a GraphQL query or mutation. Examples of scalar types in GraphQL include String, Int, Float, Boolean, and ID.


What is the role of scalar types in GraphQL schemas?

Scalar types in GraphQL schemas define the atomic data types that can be used as field types in a schema. They represent values such as String, Int, Float, Boolean, and ID. Scalar types allow developers to specify the format and validation rules for different types of data in their schema.


Scalar types play a crucial role in GraphQL schemas as they enable developers to define and enforce strict data types for the fields in their schema. This helps ensure data consistency and accuracy throughout the application by preventing incorrect data types from being entered. Scalars also provide a way to serialize and deserialize data to and from the client and server, ensuring seamless communication between the two.


Overall, scalar types are essential in defining the structure and data types of GraphQL schemas, allowing developers to create robust and reliable APIs.


What is the difference between scalar and object types in GraphQL?

In GraphQL, scalar types are primitive data types like String, Int, Boolean, Float, or ID, which represent simple values. They are used to define the shape of a field and specify the type of data that can be returned for that field.


On the other hand, object types are complex data types that represent a structured set of fields. They define the structure of a GraphQL schema by grouping fields together and defining relationships between them. Object types can contain scalar types, other object types, or a combination of both.


In summary, scalar types represent simple values, while object types represent complex, structured data with multiple fields and relationships.


How to convert a complex object to a scalar type in a GraphQL resolver?

To convert a complex object to a scalar type in a GraphQL resolver, you can use the resolve function and return the specific field or property of the complex object that you want to expose as a scalar value. Here is an example of how you can achieve this in a resolver function:

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const resolver = {
  Query: {
    getUser: async (_, { id }, { dataSources }) => {
      const user = await dataSources.usersAPI.getUserById(id);
      
      // Convert the complex user object to a scalar type
      const scalarUser = {
        id: user.id,
        name: user.name,
        email: user.email,
        // Add more fields as needed
      };
      
      return scalarUser;
    }
  }
};


In this example, the getUser resolver function retrieves a complex user object from a data source, and then constructs a new object scalarUser with just the id, name, and email fields from the original user object. This scalarUser object is then returned from the resolver and will be automatically converted into a scalar type by GraphQL. You can include more or fewer fields in the new object depending on your requirements.


What is the significance of custom scalar types in GraphQL schemas?

Custom scalar types in GraphQL schemas allow developers to define their own data types that are not included in the standard GraphQL specification. This allows for more flexibility and precision in defining the shape of the data that can be exchanged in a GraphQL API.


By defining custom scalar types, developers can ensure that the data exchanged in their API conforms to specific constraints or requirements. For example, custom scalar types can be used to enforce specific formatting rules for dates, validate certain types of data, or handle specialized serialization and deserialization logic for custom data types.


Overall, custom scalar types in GraphQL schemas enable developers to tailor their API to their specific use case, providing more control over the structure and validation of the data being exchanged. This can improve the overall robustness and reliability of the API, as well as make it easier for clients to understand and interact with the data.


How to return a scalar type in GraphQL?

In GraphQL, scalar types are basic types that represent atomic values, such as integers, strings, booleans, etc. Scalars are the building blocks for defining the shape of queries and responses in GraphQL. To return a scalar type in a GraphQL query, you simply need to define the scalar type in your schema and use it as a field in your query.


Here is an example of how you can return a scalar type (in this case, a string) in a GraphQL query:

  1. Define the scalar type in your schema:
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type Query {
  hello: String
}


  1. Implement a resolver function for the 'hello' field that returns a string value:
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const resolvers = {
  Query: {
    hello: () => 'Hello, GraphQL!'
  }
};


  1. In your GraphQL query, request the scalar type by including the 'hello' field:
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query {
  hello
}


When you execute this query, the 'hello' field will return the string value 'Hello, GraphQL!', which is the response for the scalar type in your query.

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