Why error handling differs from REST in GraphQL - Quick Recap

Recall & Review

beginner

What is the main difference in error handling between GraphQL and REST?

GraphQL returns errors inside the response body alongside data, while REST uses HTTP status codes to indicate errors.

intermediate

How does GraphQL handle partial data when an error occurs?

GraphQL can return partial data with an errors array, allowing clients to receive some valid data even if parts failed.

intermediate

Why can't GraphQL rely solely on HTTP status codes for error handling?

Because GraphQL responses often return HTTP 200 OK even if there are errors, to allow partial data and errors in the same response.

beginner

In REST, what does an HTTP 404 status code usually mean?

It means the requested resource was not found on the server.

beginner

What is the purpose of the 'errors' field in a GraphQL response?

It provides detailed information about what went wrong during the query execution.

How does GraphQL typically indicate errors in a response?

A By returning an empty response

B Using HTTP status codes like 404 or 500

C Using an 'errors' field in the JSON response

D By closing the connection abruptly

GraphQL includes an 'errors' field in the JSON response to indicate errors, even when HTTP status is 200.

What HTTP status code does GraphQL usually return even if there are errors?

A 200 OK

B 404 Not Found

C 500 Internal Server Error

D 400 Bad Request

GraphQL typically returns HTTP 200 OK to allow partial data and errors in the same response.

In REST, what does an HTTP 500 status code indicate?

A Request was successful

B Resource not found

C Client error in request

D Server error occurred

HTTP 500 means a server error happened while processing the request.

Why might GraphQL return partial data with errors?

A To provide as much valid data as possible despite some errors

B Because it cannot detect errors

C To confuse the client

D Because it does not support errors

GraphQL returns partial data with errors to give clients useful information even if some parts failed.

Which of these is NOT a typical way REST handles errors?

A Returning error messages in the response body

B Returning an 'errors' field in JSON

C Using HTTP status codes

D Using different status codes for different error types

REST does not usually use an 'errors' field in JSON; it relies on HTTP status codes and message bodies.

Explain how error handling in GraphQL differs from REST and why GraphQL uses this approach.

Think about how clients receive data and errors in both systems.

Describe the role of the 'errors' field in a GraphQL response and how it helps clients handle errors.

Focus on the information provided to clients about errors.