The answer
For complex UIs with a lot of state (food ordering app, file explorer, multi-step form). React's declarative UI and hooks make complex state management easier and faster than manual DOM manipulation.
Machine Coding Round: Vanilla JS vs React
When should I choose React over vanilla JS in the machine coding round?
More FAQs in Machine Coding Round: Vanilla JS vs React
It depends on the company (some specify) and the complexity. Vanilla JS for simple components (shows fundamentals). React for complex apps (faster state management). Choose what you are fastest with in 90 minutes.
Some do, some do not. Always ask the interviewer before starting. If they say vanilla JS only, follow instructions. If they allow React, use it for complex UIs.
Shows strong fundamentals (DOM manipulation, event handling, state management without a library), no build step needed, faster to start, and some companies prefer it to see raw JS skills.
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