Question 1

How do I parse a JavaScript file using Acorn?

Accepted Answer

Use the parse method from the Acorn package with code and options. For example, `Acorn.parse('code', { ecmaVersion: 2024 })` parses modern JavaScript. Refer to the README for detailed configuration.

Question 2

Acorn vs Babel parser: which one should I use?

Accepted Answer

Acorn is lighter and faster for syntax parsing, ideal for custom tooling. Babel parser is better for transformations and full ecosystem integration with built-in plugin support. Choose Acorn for performance-focused parsing, Babel for complex transpilation.

Question 3

Can Acorn parse JSX syntax?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but it requires the acorn-jsx plugin. Apply it via Parser.extend to enable JSX parsing, as shown in the plugin example in the README.

Question 4

How to traverse an AST with acorn-walk?

Accepted Answer

Import acorn-walk and use functions like simple or recursive to visit nodes. For instance, `walk.simple(ast, { Identifier(node) { ... } })` allows handling specific node types.

Question 5

What plugins are available for Acorn?

Accepted Answer

Popular plugins include acorn-jsx for JSX, acorn-bigint for BigInt support, and community plugins for experimental syntax. Check npm or the Acorn GitHub for more options.

Question 6

Is Acorn error-tolerant by default?

Accepted Answer

No, the main parser is strict. Use acorn-loose package for error-tolerant parsing of incomplete or invalid code, which is useful for linters or editors.

Acorn

What is Acorn?

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Frequently Asked Questions