referenceerror exports is not defined in es module scope

Referenceerror: exports is not defined in es module scope

by

When working with JavaScript modules, the error “ReferenceError: exports is not defined in ES module scope” may occur.

Since, modules are essential for organizing and structuring code, enhancing maintainability and reusability.

This article addresses the causes of this error and offers solutions to fix it.

What is Referenceerror: exports is not defined in es module scope?

The error “ReferenceError: exports is not defined in ES module scope” typically occurs when running JavaScript code that uses the exports keyword in an ECMAScript (ES) module.

In ES modules, the exports keyword is not available by default, as it is commonly used in CommonJS modules. In ES modules, you should use the export keyword to define and export values, functions, or objects.

Here’s an example of how to export a function from an ES module:

// module.js
export function myFunction() {
  // Function code here
}

Causes of this error exports is not defined in es module scope

The error message “ReferenceError: exports is not defined in ES module scope” can arise from several potential factors:

  • Using exports in an ES module: The error often occurs when you mistakenly use the exports keyword in an ES module instead of the correct export keyword.

  • Missing or incorrect module type declaration. Without the type=”module”attribute, the code is treated as a traditional script, and the ES module syntax may not be recognized, resulting in the “exports is not defined” error.

  • If you encounter the error, it could be due to running the code in an environment that doesn’t support ES modules.

How to fix Referenceerror: exports is not defined in es module scope?

To fix the ” exports is not defined in ES module scope” error, you need to make a few adjustments to your code:

Ensure that you are using ECMAScript (ES) modules by including the type=”module” attribute in your HTML script tag.

For example:

<script type="module" src="main.js"></script>

Then, use the export keyword to define exports in your ES module (module.js) instead of exports.

For example:

// module.js
export const myVariable = 42;

In the importing module (main.js), use the import statement to import the exported values from the ES module.

For example:

// main.js
import { myVariable } from './module.js';

console.log(myVariable);

By following these steps, you ensure that you are working with ES modules and using the correct syntax for exports (export) and imports (import). This should resolve the “ReferenceError: exports is not defined in ES module scope” error.

FAQs

What is the difference between CommonJS and ES6 modules?

CommonJS and ES6 modules are two distinct module systems in JavaScript with contrasting syntax and behavior.

CommonJS is commonly employed in server-side environments such as Node.js, while ES6 modules are the prevailing standard for front-end development.

How can I check if my JavaScript environment supports ES6 modules?

To determine browser support for ES6 modules, consult the compatibility table.

For Node.js, make sure you’re using a compatible version and utilize the –experimental-modules flag when running your scripts.

Anyway, here are other fixed errors you can refer to when you might encounter them.

Conclusion

Working with modules in JavaScript is essential for building scalable and maintainable applications. However, encountering the “ReferenceError: exports is not defined in ES module scope” error can be frustrating.

By understanding the correct syntax for exporting and importing modules in ES6, verifying module support, and troubleshooting common issues, you can overcome this error and harness the power of modular JavaScript.

We hope this guide has assisted you in resolving the error effectively.

Until next time! 😊

Leave a Comment