Welcome to the Treehouse Community

Want to collaborate on code errors? Have bugs you need feedback on? Looking for an extra set of eyes on your latest project? Get support with fellow developers, designers, and programmers of all backgrounds and skill levels here with the Treehouse Community! While you're at it, check out some resources Treehouse students have shared here.

Looking to learn something new?

Treehouse offers a seven day free trial for new students. Get access to thousands of hours of content and join thousands of Treehouse students and alumni in the community today.

Start your free trial

JavaScript Object-Oriented JavaScript Object Basics Filling Out the Play Method

Routine Poutine
Routine Poutine
26,050 Points
Posted by Routine Poutine
Routine Poutine
26,050 Points

"This" is necessary or preferred?

When using dot notation, is it necessary or preferred to use "this"?

if(this.isTurn) {

}

vs.

if(player1.isTurn) {

}

If it is necessary, why is doesn't the alternative work?

If it is not necessary, why is it preferred?

Thanks,

Matt

object.js 
const player1 = {
    name: 'Ashley',
    color: 'purple',
    isTurn: true,
    play: function(){
        // write code here.
      if(this.isTurn) {

      }
    }
}

1 Answer

Steven Parker
Steven Parker
231,269 Points
Steven Parker
Steven Parker
231,269 Points

When the code inside an object method refers to the current object instance, it should always use "this" instead of a name. That way it will still work no matter what name is given to the instance.