How can I update a specific element within an array of objects in JavaScript based on its reference rather than its index position?

Question

How can I update a specific element within an array of objects in JavaScript based on its reference rather than its index position?

I am dealing with multiple arrays of objects

x=[ {a:1}, {b:2}, {c:3}, {d:4} ]

y=[ {e:5}, {f:6}, {g:7}, {h:8} ] (etc)

and I have a list of references pointing to the objects I need to replace.

Instead of having an index into the array, I hold references to the items I want to update

An example reference might look like this: r=x[2] or r=y[0]

How can I utilize this reference to substitute the element within the original array regardless of which array it belongs to?

Trying to do this directly will not work: r = {a:'new'} , as it just modifies r, NOT the array's element

This method is not convenient either: r.a='new' , since my objects are complicated, comprising numerous properties, and I prefer not updating them one by one.

Many thanks!

javascript arrays pointers properties reference

Answer 1

Answer №1

When dealing with objects that are simply plain Objects (or at least of a similar type), it is possible to delete all properties and replace them with new ones:

const updateProperties = (target, source) => {
    Object.keys(target).forEach(key => {
        delete target[key];
    });

    Object.assign(target, source);
};

updateProperties(obj1, {v: 'new'});

However, although this method works, it might not be the most efficient solution. It is recommended to consider using indexes in the array instead.

If the objects have the same structure (i.e. always contain the same properties), a better approach would be to take advantage of this by using Object.assign() for updating multiple properties simultaneously:

Object.assign(obj1, {v: 'new'});

Answer 2

When dealing with objects that are simply plain Objects (or at least of a similar type), it is possible to delete all properties and replace them with new ones:

const updateProperties = (target, source) => {
    Object.keys(target).forEach(key => {
        delete target[key];
    });

    Object.assign(target, source);
};

updateProperties(obj1, {v: 'new'});

However, although this method works, it might not be the most efficient solution. It is recommended to consider using indexes in the array instead.

If the objects have the same structure (i.e. always contain the same properties), a better approach would be to take advantage of this by using Object.assign() for updating multiple properties simultaneously:

Object.assign(obj1, {v: 'new'});

How can I update a specific element within an array of objects in JavaScript based on its reference rather than its index position?

Answer №1

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