REST API - Design Guidelines
Everything you need to know to get started with REST in just a few minutes. REST API is the technology that transformed the way systems communicate with each other. It enables applications, websites, servers, and devices to exchange data quickly, securely, and universally — forming the foundation of modern apps, powerful integrations, and digital experiences that work anywhere. Index What Is an API? What Is a REST API? Key REST Concepts Resources Main HTTP Methods Data Formats 🔧 RESTful API Characteristics Stateless Client–Server Architecture Cacheability Uniform Interface Layered System General Recommendations Use Plural Nouns in URLs Keep the Base URL Simple and Intuitive Avoid Verb-Based URLs Use HTTP Verbs to Operate on Resources Resource Listing and Detail Retrieval Associations Use Query Parameters to Reduce URL Complexity Error Handling Versioning Partial Response Pagination Actions Not Involving Resources Multi-Format Support Attribute Naming Attributes in Request/Response Bodies Attributes in URLs (Query Parameters) Attributes in Headers References What Is an API? An API (Application Programming Interface) is a set of standards and protocols that allow different systems or users to interact with an application. It enables clients to access the software’s features and services without needing direct access to its internal implementation. ...