Breaking down an array in JavaScript using a variable as the index position

As far as I know, JavaScript arrays can be deconstructed based on a specific index by using the following method.

const { 3: selectedByIndex } = arr;

This code snippet assigns the value of the element at index 3 to the variable selectedByIndex.

But is there a way to dynamically pass in a variable index value for array destructuring? The following code doesn't seem to work as expected; it tries to find the index property within the arr object instead.

const index = 3;
const arr = [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]

const { index: selectedByIndex } = arr;

Answer №1

Achieving this is simple - just specify the index within the square brackets.

const index = 3;
const arr = [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]

const { [index]: selectedByIndex } = arr;

console.log(selectedByIndex)

Answer №2

While this method is functional

const a = [1, 2, 3];
const index = 2;

const [,,v1] = a;
// v1 = 3
const { [index]: v2 } = a;
// v2 = 3

The use of the second solution (v2) is considered poor design practice as arrays and objects differ in structure.

A more optimal approach would be either of these:

const v3 = a[index]; 
const v4 = a?.[index];

In essence, destructuring is most effective when the data structure is known. If uncertain, JavaScript arrays do not raise errors for out-of-bounds accesses but non-array values require optional chaining (e.g. v4).


Edit 2022

To justify why the second method is deemed a "bad design practice," consider running this benchmark:

// ran on                      Chrome 105       Firefox 105
let value = list[index];       // fastest, base    fastest, base
let value = list?.[index];     // 2.52% slower     3.74% slower
let { [index]: value } = list; // 47.72% slower    30.76% slower

Mere functionality does not equate to efficiency or good design. While I could use a pipe wrench to hammer a nail, there are undoubtedly better tools at hand.


Edit 2024

Upon the previous update, Array.at witnessed increased adoption.

const v5 = a.at(index);

This technique is favored due to its distinction from object property access.

For instance:

const i = 1;
const p = 'find';

// old
const v6 = a[i];  // 2
const v7 = a[p];  // 'find() [native code]' (same as a.find)

// new
const v8 = a.at(i);  // 2
const v9 = a.at(p);  // 1 (similar to a.at(0)

This updated API guards against retrieving unintended values via unwanted property accesses.

Bonus: a.at(-2) corresponds with a[a.length - 2]

Answer №3

To assign a variable key when creating an object, enclose it within square brackets [].

const index = 3;
const arr = [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]

const { [index]: selectedByIndex } = arr;
console.log(selectedByIndex);

However, if this is not part of a more intricate destructuring pattern, using arr[index] would be a simpler alternative.

Answer №4

// mastering the art of array destructuring

const numbers = [23, 45, 67, 89]

const[first,,second]=numbers

console.log(first,second) // 23 67

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