Table of contents
1.
Introduction
2.
Why This Function is Used
3.
Syntax, Parameter and Return Value
3.1.
Syntax:
3.2.
Parameters:
3.3.
Return Value: 
4.
Examples 
4.1.
Basic Usage:
4.2.
JavaScript
4.3.
Searching from a Given Index:
4.4.
JavaScript
4.5.
Handling Non-existent Values:
4.6.
JavaScript
4.7.
Searching in an Array of Objects:
4.8.
JavaScript
5.
Frequently Asked Questions
5.1.
How does _.indexOf() compare with JavaScript's native indexOf()?
5.2.
Can _.indexOf() find NaN (Not a Number) values?
5.3.
Is _.indexOf() suitable for searching in large arrays?
6.
Conclusion
Last Updated: Mar 27, 2024
Easy

Lodash _.indexOf() Method

Author Rinki Deka
0 upvote
Career growth poll
Do you think IIT Guwahati certified course can help you in your career?

Introduction

Array manipulation is a cornerstone of JavaScript programming, and finding the position of elements within an array is a frequent requirement. Lodash streamlines this process with the _.indexOf() method. This method provides a straightforward way to determine the first index of a given value in an array, crucial for data searching and processing tasks. 

Lodash _.indexOf() Method

This article aims to unpack the usage, syntax, and applications of _.indexOf() through comprehensive examples and FAQs.

Why This Function is Used

The _.indexOf() function is employed to locate the first occurrence of a specific value within an array. This is particularly useful in scenarios where identifying the position of an element is needed for further processing, such as in searching algorithms, data validation, or manipulation tasks. It enhances the efficiency of operations that depend on the position of elements, offering a more readable and concise approach than traditional for-loop iterations.

Syntax, Parameter and Return Value

Syntax:

 _.indexOf(array, value, [fromIndex=0])

Parameters:

  • array (Array): The array to inspect.
     
  • value: The value to search for.
     
  • [fromIndex=0] (number): The index to start the search at.

Return Value: 

(number) - Returns the index of the matched value, else -1.

Examples 

Basic Usage:

  • JavaScript

JavaScript

var _ = require('lodash');

var array = [1, 2, 3, 1, 2, 3];

var index = _.indexOf(array, 2);

console.log(index);
You can also try this code with Online Javascript Compiler
Run Code

Output:

 1


Demonstrates finding the first occurrence of a value in an array.

Searching from a Given Index:

  • JavaScript

JavaScript

var fromIndex = 3;

var indexFrom = _.indexOf(array, 2, fromIndex);

console.log(indexFrom);
You can also try this code with Online Javascript Compiler
Run Code

 Output: 

4


Shows how to start the search from a specific index.

Handling Non-existent Values:

  • JavaScript

JavaScript

var indexNotFound = _.indexOf(array, 4);

console.log(indexNotFound);
You can also try this code with Online Javascript Compiler
Run Code

Output: 

-1


Illustrates the method's return value when the specified element is not found.

Searching in an Array of Objects:

  • JavaScript

JavaScript

var objectsArray = [{ 'x': 1 }, { 'x': 2 }, { 'x': 1 }];

var indexObject = _.indexOf(objectsArray, { 'x': 1 });

console.log(indexObject);
You can also try this code with Online Javascript Compiler
Run Code

Output:

 -1


This example shows that _.indexOf() uses strict equality for comparison, hence the object reference needs to match.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does _.indexOf() compare with JavaScript's native indexOf()?

Lodash's _.indexOf() provides similar functionality but with additional capabilities like searching from a specified index.

Can _.indexOf() find NaN (Not a Number) values?

Yes, unlike the native indexOf(), Lodash's _.indexOf() can successfully locate NaN within an array.

Is _.indexOf() suitable for searching in large arrays?

While it's efficient for most cases, its performance may vary in extremely large arrays; thus, profiling for specific cases is recommended.

Conclusion

Lodash's _.indexOf() method is an effective tool for locating the first occurrence of a value within an array. It offers enhanced functionality over the native JavaScript indexOf() and is particularly useful in scenarios requiring element position identification. Its integration into JavaScript projects can lead to more efficient and readable code, especially in data manipulation and searching tasks.

You can refer to our guided paths on the Coding Ninjas. You can check our course to learn more about DSADBMSCompetitive ProgrammingPythonJavaJavaScript, etc. 

Also, check out some of the Guided Paths on topics such as Data Structure and AlgorithmsCompetitive ProgrammingOperating SystemsComputer Networks, DBMSSystem Design, etc., as well as some Contests, Test Series, and Interview Experiences curated by top Industry Experts.

Live masterclass