How Can I Publish and Maintain My Own npm Package?

[Pasindu-Adhikari]

What is the process to publish an npm package, and how do I maintain it over time? What are some common pitfalls to avoid when publishing packages?

[kasun-deshapriya]

To publish an npm package, follow these steps:

Create a package.json file: This file contains metadata about your package and its dependencies.
Write your code and add documentation: Ensure your code is well-documented to help users understand how to use your package.
Test your package: Make sure it works as expected and has no bugs.
Login to npm: Use npm login to log in to your npm account.
Publish your package: Run npm publish to publish your package to the npm registry.
Maintain your package: Regularly update your package with new features, bug fixes, and security patches. Use versioning (npm version) to manage updates effectively.
Common pitfalls to avoid:

Forgetting to ignore sensitive files: Use .npmignore to exclude files not meant for the public.
Incorrect versioning: Follow semantic versioning guidelines strictly.
Poor documentation: Ensure your README and documentation are clear and helpful.
Not testing your package: Always test thoroughly before publishing.