How to Differentiate Between Keywords that Declare Variables – JavaScript

JavaScript uses many different keywords for multiple purposes. As discussed in our previous tutorial, we can use three keywords to declare a variable in JavaScript. Each variable has its own characteristics and functions. Lets demonstrate how we can differentiate between keywords that declare variables.

var keywordlet keywordconst keyword
You can redeclare itYou can redeclare itYou cannot redeclare it
You can reassign it with any valueYou can reassign it with any valueYou cannot reassign it with a value
It has both local global and function scopeIt has a block scopeIt has a block scope
You can declare it on top and then use it anywhereYou should declare and also initialize it before usingYou should declare and also initialize it before using
You can redeclare them anywhere in the programYou can redeclare them anywhere inside a blockYou cannot redeclare

Declaration

When you declare a variable, we consider multiple factors. If you need to redeclare a variable, its recommended to use var and let keywords. For example.

var a = 5;
let b = 5;

if (true) {
  var a = 8;
  let b = 8;
}

You can redeclare the same variable, i.e. a or b again anywhere in the program using let or var. This is not permitted using const, as it must hold a constant value.

However, the let keyword is preferred to be redeclared inside the same block it is defined, as outside that block it may change value due to its block scope.

Assign and Reassign Values

When we declare a variable, we may at times initialize it or not. When working with let and const, it is compulsory to also assign the variable with a value. Keywords declared with let and const should always be initialized before they are being used. For example.

const a = 5;
let b;

console.log(a) // shows 5
console.log(b) // throws an error as not initialized

The value of a stays the same throughout the program, we cannot reassign it with another value. b with let keyword can be reassigned anywhere throughout the program.

Scope

The scope defines where the variable is used in a program. var with both global and local scope can be declared and used anywhere. However, const and let have blocked and confined scope. To see more explanation on scopes, refer to the tutorial on scope of a variable.