How does GraphQL work?

GraphQL is an open-source query language and runtime for APIs that provides a flexible and efficient way to request and deliver data. It operates on the idea of a single endpoint where clients can send structured queries to request specific data. Unlike traditional REST APIs, GraphQL allows clients to specify exactly what data they need, avoiding over-fetching or under-fetching of data. When a client sends a query to the GraphQL server, it parses and validates the input, before executing the query against the data sources. The server then resolves the query, fetching the required data from various sources, and returns a response in a structured JSON format. The power of GraphQL lies in its ability to efficiently retrieve data by aggregating fields from multiple sources, providing a more intuitive and flexible approach to building and consuming APIs.

This mind map was published on 19 September 2023 and has been viewed 109 times.