API Design Principles and Best Practices

API Design Fundamentals

Well-designed APIs are crucial for building scalable and maintainable applications. Good API design follows consistent patterns and conventions.

REST Principles

• Use proper HTTP methods
• Resource-based URLs
• Stateless communication
• Consistent response formats

Best Practices

• Version your APIs
• Use proper status codes
• Implement pagination
• Add filtering and sorting
• Document thoroughly

Good API design makes integration easier and improves developer experience.