Unleash the Power of Split Panes in React

The Concept

Imagine having a web or desktop IDE with multiple areas, each displaying different information. In this article, we’ll create a split pane component in React from scratch, without relying on external libraries. Our example app will feature a predefined list of famous names on the left-side pane and a quote from each on the right-side pane.

Setting Up the Project

To get started quickly, we’ll use the create-react-app tool. Run the following command:

npx create-react-app my-split-pane-app

Open the project in your preferred code editor and create the necessary files.

Creating the Context

We’ll create two context files: QuoteContext.js and SplitPaneContext.js. These will hold data and functions common to both the top panel and its child panels.

App Structure

Let’s take a look at the App.js file:

import React from 'eact';
import { QuoteProvider } from './QuoteContext';
import SplitPane from './SplitPane';

function App() {
  return (
    {/* App content */}
  );
}

export default App;

The Magic Happens

The SplitPane.js component is where the real magic happens. We’ll build it step by step, using React hooks to ensure the freshest possible implementation.

SplitPane Component

The SplitPane component is responsible for keeping track of the pane positions, dimensions, mouse events, and child components. We’ll also create a Divider component, which represents a single pane divider line that can be both vertical or horizontal.

Testing the App

Before testing, make sure to fill in the index.css file with the necessary styles. Then, run the following command:

npm start

This will open your default web browser and display the application. You can now test and run your app!

Taking it to the Next Level

To take your split panes to the next level, try creating more complex and nested panels that interoperate with each other via React’s state and context. Good luck!

• Create more complex and nested panels
• Interoperate with each other via React’s state and context

Learn more about React’s context API Explore advanced React hooks