How would you implement error handling in a REST API?

Question

Explain the techniques you would use to manage errors effectively in a RESTful API, including status codes and messages. Discuss how you would ensure client-side developers understand the errors returned from the API.

Accepted Answer

1. Use appropriate HTTP status codes (e.g., 404 for not found, 500 for server error).
2. Return consistent error response formats (JSON structure with error details).
3. Log errors server-side for monitoring and debugging.
4. Implement error middleware to handle uncaught errors globally.
5. Provide documentation for API consumers on how to interpret errors.

How would you implement error handling in a REST API?

Answer