Sort Array Of Objects Javascript

Parameters

The sort method can optionally take a compare function as a parameter, which specifies a function that defines the sort order. If omitted, the array elements are converted to strings & sorted according to each character's Unicode code point value.

function compare(a, b) {
  // Implementation for comparison
}

Return value

The sort method returns the sorted array. Remember, this method alters the original array & sorts the elements in place.

Description

When a compare function is provided, the array elements are sorted according to the return value of the compare function. If the function returns a value less than 0, it sorts a before b. If the function returns a value greater than 0, it sorts b before a. If the function returns 0, a & b are considered equal.

The compare Function

The compare function plays a crucial role in customizing the sort behavior. It takes two arguments, often referred to as a & b, which represent any two elements being compared in the array.

function compare(a, b) {
  if (a < b) {
    return -1;
  }
  if (a > b) {
    return 1;
  }
  return 0;
}

Creating, Displaying, & Sorting an Array

Let's start by creating & displaying an array of objects. We'll then apply the sorting techniques we've discussed.

• JavaScript

JavaScript

let users = [

  { name: "Alice", age: 25 },

  { name: "Bob", age: 22 },

  { name: "Charlie", age: 28 }

];

console.log("Original array:", users);

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Output

Sort an array of objects by Numbers

Sorting by numbers, like ages or scores, is straightforward with the compare function. Here's how you can sort the users array by age:

• JavaScript

JavaScript

let users = [

  { name: "Alice", age: 25 },

  { name: "Bob", age: 22 },

  { name: "Charlie", age: 28 }

];

console.log("Original array:", users);

users.sort(function(a, b) {

  return a.age - b.age;

});

console.log("Sorted by age:", users);

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Output

Sort an Array of Objects by Strings

Sorting by strings requires comparing the string properties. If you want to sort the users array by names, the compare function changes slightly:

• JavaScript

JavaScript

let users = [

  { name: "Alice", age: 25 },

  { name: "Dia", age: 22 },

  { name: "Charlie", age: 28 }

];

console.log("Original array:", users);

users.sort(function(a, b) {

  let nameA = a.name.toUpperCase(); // ignore upper & lowercase

  let nameB = b.name.toUpperCase(); // ignore upper & lowercase

  if (nameA < nameB) {

    return -1;

  }

  if (nameA > nameB) {

    return 1;

  }

  return 0;

});

console.log("Sorted by name:", users);

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Output

Sort an Array of Objects by Dates

Sorting by dates involves comparing date objects. Assume each user object has a signupDate property. Here's how you'd sort by that date:

• JavaScript

JavaScript

let users = [

  { name: "Alice", age: 25 },

  { name: "Dia", age: 22 },

  { name: "Charlie", age: 28 }

];


console.log("Original array:", users);

users.sort(function(a, b) {

  return new Date(a.signupDate) - new Date(b.signupDate);

});

console.log("Sorted by signup date:", users);

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Output

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I sort in descending order?

Yes, just reverse the comparison in your compare function.

Does sorting alter the original array?

Yes, the sort method sorts arrays in place & modifies the original array.

Can I sort by multiple criteria?

Absolutely, you can extend the compare function to include multiple conditions for a more refined sort.

Conclusion

Sorting arrays of objects in JavaScript is a fundamental skill that enhances your data manipulation capabilities. By mastering the use of the sort method & the compare function, you can efficiently organize your data by various criteria, making your applications more intuitive & user-friendly. With the examples & explanations provided, you're well-equipped to tackle sorting challenges in your projects.

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