REST APIs: Design and Implementation Best Practices

A well-designed API is fundamental to the success of any modern application. Let's explore the best practices for creating quality REST APIs.

Fundamental Principles

1. Use Nouns, Not Verbs - ✅ GET /users - ❌ GET /getUsers

2. Resources in Plural - ✅ /products - ❌ /product

3. Clear Hierarchy - /users/{id}/orders - /products/{id}/reviews

Correct HTTP Methods

Appropriate Status Codes

Success (2xx) - 200 OK - Request successful - 201 Created - Resource created - 204 No Content - Success with no return data

Client Error (4xx) - 400 Bad Request - Invalid data - 401 Unauthorized - Not authenticated - 403 Forbidden - No permission - 404 Not Found - Resource not found

Server Error (5xx) - 500 Internal Server Error - 503 Service Unavailable

Versioning

Include the version in the URL to maintain compatibility: - /api/v1/users - /api/v2/users

Pagination

For large lists, implement pagination.

Filters and Sorting

Use query parameters: - GET /products?category=electronics&sort=-price - GET /users?status=active&limit=50

Error Handling

Return consistent and informative errors.

Documentation

• Use OpenAPI/Swagger
• Keep examples updated
• Document error cases

Conclusion

A well-designed API facilitates integration, reduces bugs, and improves the developer experience. At Johnny Software Development, we follow these practices in all our projects.