How to Implement Multiple Refs for an Array of Elements with React Hooks?

Using Multiple Refs for an Array of Elements with Hooks

Question:

How can multiple refs be implemented for an array of elements using the React hooks API?

Background:

Using refs for a single element is straightforward, but extending it to an array of elements requires a different approach.

Proposed Solution:

Since hooks cannot be used within loops, a custom approach is necessary:

Step 1: Create an Array of Refs

Start by creating a ref object that will hold a list of refs.

<code class="javascript">const itemsRef = useRef([]);</code>

Step 2: Access Element Refs

Each element in the array can be accessed using the index:

<code class="javascript">itemsRef.current[n] // nth element's ref</code>

Step 3: Update Ref Array on Array Change

Ensure that the ref array remains synchronized with the array of elements. This can be done in a useEffect hook:

<code class="javascript">useEffect(() => {
  itemsRef.current = itemsRef.current.slice(0, props.items.length);
}, [props.items]);</code>

Step 4: Assign Refs to Array Elements

When creating the elements, assign the appropriate ref to each one:

<code class="javascript">props.items.map((item, i) => (
  <div
    key={i}
    ref={el => itemsRef.current[i] = el}
    style={{ width: `${(i + 1) * 100}px` }}
  >
    ...
  </div>
));</code>

By following these steps, you can successfully use multiple refs for an array of elements with hooks.

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