What is REST API?
A standard way to design APIs that uses simple web addresses and common actions like GET (read) and POST (create)
Why It Matters
REST APIs are the most common type of API on the web, making it easier to find developers who can work with them and integrate with other services
Real-World Example
A weather app might call api.weather.com/forecast/melbourne to get the forecast for Melbourne
“Understanding terms like REST API matters because it helps you have better conversations with developers and make smarter decisions about your software. You do not need to be technical. You just need to know enough to ask the right questions.”
Related Terms
API
A way for different software applications to talk to each other and share data
Endpoint
A specific URL where your API receives requests and sends responses
GraphQL
An alternative to REST APIs that lets you request exactly the data you need in a single call
CRUD Operations
The four basic operations for managing data: Create, Read, Update, and Delete
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