What are some NPM commands you should know?

Some Basic NPM Commands

Below are some useful NPM commands you will use often, each explained in 15–20 words:

1. npm init

Creates a new package.json file, allowing you to set up project details and manage dependencies.

2. npm install <package>

Downloads and adds a package to your project so you can use it in your application.

3. npm install -g <package>

Installs a package globally, making the tool available system‑wide instead of only in a single project.

4. npm uninstall <package>

Removes an installed package and updates the project’s dependency list accordingly.

5. npm update

Checks for newer versions of installed packages and updates them to the latest compatible release.

6. npm list

Displays all packages currently installed in the project, including their versions and dependencies.

7. npm run <script>

Executes custom scripts defined in package.json, such as build commands or automation tasks.

8. npm outdated

Shows packages that have newer versions available, helping you track updates and potential improvements.

9. npm audit

Scans project dependencies for security issues and suggests steps to fix vulnerabilities.

10. npm cache clean --force

Clears the NPM cache, helping resolve installation issues or corrupted package downloads.

Conclusion

Knowing a few essential NPM commands can make package management smoother and more efficient. Whether you’re installing dependencies, running scripts, or keeping your project up to date, NPM provides straightforward commands to help you stay in control of your workflow.

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