React Native Skills

React Native Skills

Comprehensive best practices for React Native and Expo applications. Contains rules across multiple categories covering performance, animations, UI patterns, and platform-specific optimizations.

When to Apply

Reference these guidelines when:

• Building React Native or Expo apps
• Optimizing list and scroll performance
• Implementing animations with Reanimated
• Working with images and media
• Configuring native modules or fonts
• Structuring monorepo projects with native dependencies

Rule Categories by Priority

Quick Reference

1. List Performance (CRITICAL)

• list-performance-virtualize - Use FlashList for large lists
• list-performance-item-memo - Memoize list item components
• list-performance-callbacks - Stabilize callback references
• list-performance-inline-objects - Avoid inline style objects
• list-performance-function-references - Extract functions outside render
• list-performance-images - Optimize images in lists
• list-performance-item-expensive - Move expensive work outside items
• list-performance-item-types - Use item types for heterogeneous lists

2. Animation (HIGH)

• animation-gpu-properties - Animate only transform and opacity
• animation-derived-value - Use useDerivedValue for computed animations
• animation-gesture-detector-press - Use Gesture.Tap instead of Pressable

3. Navigation (HIGH)

• navigation-native-navigators - Use native stack and native tabs over JS navigators

4. UI Patterns (HIGH)

• ui-expo-image - Use expo-image for all images
• ui-image-gallery - Use Galeria for image lightboxes
• ui-pressable - Use Pressable over TouchableOpacity
• ui-safe-area-scroll - Handle safe areas in ScrollViews
• ui-scrollview-content-inset - Use contentInset for headers
• ui-menus - Use native context menus
• ui-native-modals - Use native modals when possible
• ui-measure-views - Use onLayout, not measure()
• ui-styling - Use StyleSheet.create or Nativewind

5. State Management (MEDIUM)

• react-state-minimize - Minimize state subscriptions
• react-state-dispatcher - Use dispatcher pattern for callbacks
• react-state-fallback - Show fallback on first render
• react-compiler-destructure-functions - Destructure for React Compiler
• react-compiler-reanimated-shared-values - Handle shared values with compiler

6. Rendering (MEDIUM)

• rendering-text-in-text-component - Wrap text in Text components
• rendering-no-falsy-and - Avoid falsy && for conditional rendering

7. Monorepo (MEDIUM)

• monorepo-native-deps-in-app - Keep native dependencies in app package
• monorepo-single-dependency-versions - Use single versions across packages

8. Configuration (LOW)

• fonts-config-plugin - Use config plugins for custom fonts
• imports-design-system-folder - Organize design system imports
• js-hoist-intl - Hoist Intl object creation

How to Use

Read individual rule files for detailed explanations and code examples:

rules/list-performance-virtualize.md
rules/animation-gpu-properties.md

Each rule file contains:

• Brief explanation of why it matters
• Incorrect code example with explanation
• Correct code example with explanation
• Additional context and references

Full Compiled Document

For the complete guide with all rules expanded: AGENTS.md

React Native Guidelines

A structured repository for creating and maintaining React Native Best Practices optimized for agents and LLMs.

Structure

• rules/ - Individual rule files (one per rule)
• _sections.md - Section metadata (titles, impacts, descriptions)
• _template.md - Template for creating new rules
• area-description.md - Individual rule files
• metadata.json - Document metadata (version, organization, abstract)
• `AGENTS.md` - Compiled output (generated)

Rules

Core Rendering (CRITICAL)

• rendering-text-in-text-component.md - Wrap strings in Text components
• rendering-no-falsy-and.md - Avoid falsy && operator in JSX

List Performance (HIGH)

• list-performance-virtualize.md - Use virtualized lists (LegendList, FlashList)
• list-performance-function-references.md - Keep stable object references
• list-performance-callbacks.md - Hoist callbacks to list root
• list-performance-inline-objects.md - Avoid inline objects in renderItem
• list-performance-item-memo.md - Pass primitives for memoization
• list-performance-item-expensive.md - Keep list items lightweight
• list-performance-images.md - Use compressed images in lists
• list-performance-item-types.md - Use item types for heterogeneous lists

Animation (HIGH)

• animation-gpu-properties.md - Animate transform/opacity instead of layout
• animation-gesture-detector-press.md - Use GestureDetector for press animations
• animation-derived-value.md - Prefer useDerivedValue over useAnimatedReaction

Scroll Performance (HIGH)

• scroll-position-no-state.md - Never track scroll in useState

Navigation (HIGH)

• navigation-native-navigators.md - Use native stack and native tabs

React State (MEDIUM)

• react-state-dispatcher.md - Use functional setState updates
• react-state-fallback.md - State should represent user intent only
• react-state-minimize.md - Minimize state variables, derive values

State Architecture (MEDIUM)

• state-ground-truth.md - State must represent ground truth

React Compiler (MEDIUM)

• react-compiler-destructure-functions.md - Destructure functions early
• react-compiler-reanimated-shared-values.md - Use .get()/.set() for shared values

User Interface (MEDIUM)

• ui-expo-image.md - Use expo-image for optimized images
• ui-image-gallery.md - Use Galeria for lightbox/galleries
• ui-menus.md - Native dropdown and context menus with Zeego
• ui-native-modals.md - Use native Modal with formSheet
• ui-pressable.md - Use Pressable instead of TouchableOpacity
• ui-measure-views.md - Measuring view dimensions
• ui-safe-area-scroll.md - Use contentInsetAdjustmentBehavior
• ui-scrollview-content-inset.md - Use contentInset for dynamic spacing
• ui-styling.md - Modern styling patterns (gap, boxShadow, gradients)

Design System (MEDIUM)

• design-system-compound-components.md - Use compound components

Monorepo (LOW)

• monorepo-native-deps-in-app.md - Install native deps in app directory
• monorepo-single-dependency-versions.md - Single dependency versions

Third-Party Dependencies (LOW)

• imports-design-system-folder.md - Import from design system folder

JavaScript (LOW)

• js-hoist-intl.md - Hoist Intl formatter creation

Fonts (LOW)

• fonts-config-plugin.md - Load fonts natively at build time

Creating a New Rule

1. Copy rules/_template.md to rules/area-description.md 2. Choose the appropriate area prefix:

• rendering- for Core Rendering
• list-performance- for List Performance
• animation- for Animation
• scroll- for Scroll Performance
• navigation- for Navigation
• react-state- for React State
• state- for State Architecture
• react-compiler- for React Compiler
• ui- for User Interface
• design-system- for Design System
• monorepo- for Monorepo
• imports- for Third-Party Dependencies
• js- for JavaScript
• fonts- for Fonts

3. Fill in the frontmatter and content 4. Ensure you have clear examples with explanations

Rule File Structure

Each rule file should follow this structure:

---
title: Rule Title Here
impact: MEDIUM
impactDescription: Optional description
tags: tag1, tag2, tag3
---

## Rule Title Here

Brief explanation of the rule and why it matters.

**Incorrect (description of what's wrong):**

// Bad code example

**Correct (description of what's right):**

// Good code example

Reference: [Link](https://example.com)

File Naming Convention

• Files starting with _ are special (excluded from build)
• Rule files: area-description.md (e.g., animation-gpu-properties.md)
• Section is automatically inferred from filename prefix
• Rules are sorted alphabetically by title within each section

Impact Levels

• CRITICAL - Highest priority, causes crashes or broken UI
• HIGH - Significant performance improvements
• MEDIUM - Moderate performance improvements
• LOW - Incremental improvements

Sections

This file defines all sections, their ordering, impact levels, and descriptions. The section ID (in parentheses) is the filename prefix used to group rules.

---

1. Core Rendering (rendering)

Impact: CRITICAL Description: Fundamental React Native rendering rules. Violations cause runtime crashes or broken UI.

2. List Performance (list-performance)

Impact: HIGH Description: Optimizing virtualized lists (FlatList, LegendList, FlashList) for smooth scrolling and fast updates.

3. Animation (animation)

Impact: HIGH Description: GPU-accelerated animations, Reanimated patterns, and avoiding render thrashing during gestures.

4. Scroll Performance (scroll)

Impact: HIGH Description: Tracking scroll position without causing render thrashing.

5. Navigation (navigation)

Impact: HIGH Description: Using native navigators for stack and tab navigation instead of JS-based alternatives.

6. React State (react-state)

Impact: MEDIUM Description: Patterns for managing React state to avoid stale closures and unnecessary re-renders.

7. State Architecture (state)

Impact: MEDIUM Description: Ground truth principles for state variables and derived values.

8. React Compiler (react-compiler)

Impact: MEDIUM Description: Compatibility patterns for React Compiler with React Native and Reanimated.

9. User Interface (ui)

Impact: MEDIUM Description: Native UI patterns for images, menus, modals, styling, and platform-consistent interfaces.

10. Design System (design-system)

Impact: MEDIUM Description: Architecture patterns for building maintainable component libraries.

11. Monorepo (monorepo)

Impact: LOW Description: Dependency management and native module configuration in monorepos.

12. Third-Party Dependencies (imports)

Impact: LOW Description: Wrapping and re-exporting third-party dependencies for maintainability.

13. JavaScript (js)

Impact: LOW Description: Micro-optimizations like hoisting expensive object creation.

14. Fonts (fonts)

Impact: LOW Description: Native font loading for improved performance.

Rule Title Here

Impact: MEDIUM (optional impact description)

Brief explanation of the rule and why it matters. This should be clear and concise, explaining the performance implications.

Incorrect (description of what's wrong):

// Bad code example here
const bad = example()

Correct (description of what's right):

// Good code example here
const good = example()

Reference: Link to documentation or resource

Prefer useDerivedValue Over useAnimatedReaction

When deriving a shared value from another, use useDerivedValue instead of useAnimatedReaction. Derived values are declarative, automatically track dependencies, and return a value you can use directly. Animated reactions are for side effects, not derivations.

Incorrect (useAnimatedReaction for derivation):

import { useSharedValue, useAnimatedReaction } from 'react-native-reanimated'

function MyComponent() {
  const progress = useSharedValue(0)
  const opacity = useSharedValue(1)

  useAnimatedReaction(
    () => progress.value,
    (current) => {
      opacity.value = 1 - current
    }
  )

  // ...
}

Correct (useDerivedValue):

import { useSharedValue, useDerivedValue } from 'react-native-reanimated'

function MyComponent() {
  const progress = useSharedValue(0)

  const opacity = useDerivedValue(() => 1 - progress.get())

  // ...
}

Use useAnimatedReaction only for side effects that don't produce a value (e.g., triggering haptics, logging, calling runOnJS).

Reference: Reanimated useDerivedValue

Use GestureDetector for Animated Press States

For animated press states (scale, opacity on press), use GestureDetector with Gesture.Tap() and shared values instead of Pressable's onPressIn/onPressOut. Gesture callbacks run on the UI thread as worklets—no JS thread round-trip for press animations.

Incorrect (Pressable with JS thread callbacks):

import { Pressable } from 'react-native'
import Animated, {
  useSharedValue,
  useAnimatedStyle,
  withTiming,
} from 'react-native-reanimated'

function AnimatedButton({ onPress }: { onPress: () => void }) {
  const scale = useSharedValue(1)

  const animatedStyle = useAnimatedStyle(() => ({
    transform: [{ scale: scale.value }],
  }))

  return (
    <Pressable
      onPress={onPress}
      onPressIn={() => (scale.value = withTiming(0.95))}
      onPressOut={() => (scale.value = withTiming(1))}
    >
      <Animated.View style={animatedStyle}>
        <Text>Press me</Text>
      </Animated.View>
    </Pressable>
  )
}

Correct (GestureDetector with UI thread worklets):

import { Gesture, GestureDetector } from 'react-native-gesture-handler'
import Animated, {
  useSharedValue,
  useAnimatedStyle,
  withTiming,
  interpolate,
  runOnJS,
} from 'react-native-reanimated'

function AnimatedButton({ onPress }: { onPress: () => void }) {
  // Store the press STATE (0 = not pressed, 1 = pressed)
  const pressed = useSharedValue(0)

  const tap = Gesture.Tap()
    .onBegin(() => {
      pressed.set(withTiming(1))
    })
    .onFinalize(() => {
      pressed.set(withTiming(0))
    })
    .onEnd(() => {
      runOnJS(onPress)()
    })

  // Derive visual values from the state
  const animatedStyle = useAnimatedStyle(() => ({
    transform: [
      { scale: interpolate(withTiming(pressed.get()), [0, 1], [1, 0.95]) },
    ],
  }))

  return (
    <GestureDetector gesture={tap}>
      <Animated.View style={animatedStyle}>
        <Text>Press me</Text>
      </Animated.View>
    </GestureDetector>
  )
}

Store the press state (0 or 1), then derive the scale via interpolate. This keeps the shared value as ground truth. Use runOnJS to call JS functions from worklets. Use .set() and .get() for React Compiler compatibility.

Reference: Gesture Handler Tap Gesture

Animate Transform and Opacity Instead of Layout Properties

Avoid animating width, height, top, left, margin, or padding. These trigger layout recalculation on every frame. Instead, use transform (scale, translate) and opacity which run on the GPU without triggering layout.

Incorrect (animates height, triggers layout every frame):

import Animated, { useAnimatedStyle, withTiming } from 'react-native-reanimated'

function CollapsiblePanel({ expanded }: { expanded: boolean }) {
  const animatedStyle = useAnimatedStyle(() => ({
    height: withTiming(expanded ? 200 : 0), // triggers layout on every frame
    overflow: 'hidden',
  }))

  return <Animated.View style={animatedStyle}>{children}</Animated.View>
}

Correct (animates scaleY, GPU-accelerated):

import Animated, { useAnimatedStyle, withTiming } from 'react-native-reanimated'

function CollapsiblePanel({ expanded }: { expanded: boolean }) {
  const animatedStyle = useAnimatedStyle(() => ({
    transform: [
      { scaleY: withTiming(expanded ? 1 : 0) },
    ],
    opacity: withTiming(expanded ? 1 : 0),
  }))

  return (
    <Animated.View style={[{ height: 200, transformOrigin: 'top' }, animatedStyle]}>
      {children}
    </Animated.View>
  )
}

Correct (animates translateY for slide animations):

import Animated, { useAnimatedStyle, withTiming } from 'react-native-reanimated'

function SlideIn({ visible }: { visible: boolean }) {
  const animatedStyle = useAnimatedStyle(() => ({
    transform: [
      { translateY: withTiming(visible ? 0 : 100) },
    ],
    opacity: withTiming(visible ? 1 : 0),
  }))

  return <Animated.View style={animatedStyle}>{children}</Animated.View>
}

GPU-accelerated properties: transform (translate, scale, rotate), opacity. Everything else triggers layout.

Use Compound Components Over Polymorphic Children

Don't create components that can accept a string if they aren't a text node. If a component can receive a string child, it must be a dedicated *Text component. For components like buttons, which can have both a View (or Pressable) together with text, use compound components, such a Button, ButtonText, and ButtonIcon.

Incorrect (polymorphic children):

import { Pressable, Text } from 'react-native'

type ButtonProps = {
  children: string | React.ReactNode
  icon?: React.ReactNode
}

function Button({ children, icon }: ButtonProps) {
  return (
    <Pressable>
      {icon}
      {typeof children === 'string' ? <Text>{children}</Text> : children}
    </Pressable>
  )
}

// Usage is ambiguous
<Button icon={<Icon />}>Save</Button>
<Button><CustomText>Save</CustomText></Button>

Correct (compound components):

import { Pressable, Text } from 'react-native'

function Button({ children }: { children: React.ReactNode }) {
  return <Pressable>{children}</Pressable>
}

function ButtonText({ children }: { children: React.ReactNode }) {
  return <Text>{children}</Text>
}

function ButtonIcon({ children }: { children: React.ReactNode }) {
  return <>{children}</>
}

// Usage is explicit and composable
<Button>
  <ButtonIcon><SaveIcon /></ButtonIcon>
  <ButtonText>Save</ButtonText>
</Button>

<Button>
  <ButtonText>Cancel</ButtonText>
</Button>

Use Expo Config Plugin for Font Loading

Use the expo-font config plugin to embed fonts at build time instead of useFonts or Font.loadAsync. Embedded fonts are more efficient.

Incorrect (async font loading):

import { useFonts } from 'expo-font'
import { Text, View } from 'react-native'

function App() {
  const [fontsLoaded] = useFonts({
    'Geist-Bold': require('./assets/fonts/Geist-Bold.otf'),
  })

  if (!fontsLoaded) {
    return null
  }

  return (
    <View>
      <Text style={{ fontFamily: 'Geist-Bold' }}>Hello</Text>
    </View>
  )
}

Correct (config plugin, fonts embedded at build):

// app.json
{
  "expo": {
    "plugins": [
      [
        "expo-font",
        {
          "fonts": ["./assets/fonts/Geist-Bold.otf"]
        }
      ]
    ]
  }
}

import { Text, View } from 'react-native'

function App() {
  // No loading state needed—font is already available
  return (
    <View>
      <Text style={{ fontFamily: 'Geist-Bold' }}>Hello</Text>
    </View>
  )
}

After adding fonts to the config plugin, run npx expo prebuild and rebuild the native app.

Reference: Expo Font Documentation

Import from Design System Folder

Re-export dependencies from a design system folder. App code imports from there, not directly from packages. This enables global changes and easy refactoring.

Incorrect (imports directly from package):

import { View, Text } from 'react-native'
import { Button } from '@ui/button'

function Profile() {
  return (
    <View>
      <Text>Hello</Text>
      <Button>Save</Button>
    </View>
  )
}

Correct (imports from design system):

// components/view.tsx
import { View as RNView } from 'react-native'

// ideal: pick the props you will actually use to control implementation
export function View(
  props: Pick<React.ComponentProps<typeof RNView>, 'style' | 'children'>
) {
  return <RNView {...props} />
}

// components/text.tsx
export { Text } from 'react-native'

// components/button.tsx
export { Button } from '@ui/button'

import { View } from '@/components/view'
import { Text } from '@/components/text'
import { Button } from '@/components/button'

function Profile() {
  return (
    <View>
      <Text>Hello</Text>
      <Button>Save</Button>
    </View>
  )
}

Start by simply re-exporting. Customize later without changing app code.

Hoist Intl Formatter Creation

Don't create Intl.DateTimeFormat, Intl.NumberFormat, or Intl.RelativeTimeFormat inside render or loops. These are expensive to instantiate. Hoist to module scope when the locale/options are static.

Incorrect (new formatter every render):

function Price({ amount }: { amount: number }) {
  const formatter = new Intl.NumberFormat('en-US', {
    style: 'currency',
    currency: 'USD',
  })
  return <Text>{formatter.format(amount)}</Text>
}

Correct (hoisted to module scope):

const currencyFormatter = new Intl.NumberFormat('en-US', {
  style: 'currency',
  currency: 'USD',
})

function Price({ amount }: { amount: number }) {
  return <Text>{currencyFormatter.format(amount)}</Text>
}

For dynamic locales, memoize:

const dateFormatter = useMemo(
  () => new Intl.DateTimeFormat(locale, { dateStyle: 'medium' }),
  [locale]
)

Common formatters to hoist:

// Module-level formatters
const dateFormatter = new Intl.DateTimeFormat('en-US', { dateStyle: 'medium' })
const timeFormatter = new Intl.DateTimeFormat('en-US', { timeStyle: 'short' })
const percentFormatter = new Intl.NumberFormat('en-US', { style: 'percent' })
const relativeFormatter = new Intl.RelativeTimeFormat('en-US', {
  numeric: 'auto',
})

Creating Intl objects is significantly more expensive than RegExp or plain objects—each instantiation parses locale data and builds internal lookup tables.

List performance callbacks

Impact: HIGH (Fewer re-renders and faster lists)

When passing callback functions to list items, create a single instance of the callback at the root of the list. Items should then call it with a unique identifier.

Incorrect (creates a new callback on each render):

return (
  <LegendList
    renderItem={({ item }) => {
      // bad: creates a new callback on each render
      const onPress = () => handlePress(item.id)
      return <Item key={item.id} item={item} onPress={onPress} />
    }}
  />
)

Correct (a single function instance passed to each item):

const onPress = useCallback(() => handlePress(item.id), [handlePress, item.id])

return (
  <LegendList
    renderItem={({ item }) => (
      <Item key={item.id} item={item} onPress={onPress} />
    )}
  />
)

Reference: Link to documentation or resource

Optimize List Performance with Stable Object References

Don't map or filter data before passing to virtualized lists. Virtualization relies on object reference stability to know what changed—new references cause full re-renders of all visible items. Attempt to prevent frequent renders at the list-parent level.

Where needed, use context selectors within list items.

Incorrect (creates new object references on every keystroke):

function DomainSearch() {
  const { keyword, setKeyword } = useKeywordZustandState()
  const { data: tlds } = useTlds()

  // Bad: creates new objects on every render, reparenting the entire list on every keystroke
  const domains = tlds.map((tld) => ({
    domain: `${keyword}.${tld.name}`,
    tld: tld.name,
    price: tld.price,
  }))

  return (
    <>
      <TextInput value={keyword} onChangeText={setKeyword} />
      <LegendList
        data={domains}
        renderItem={({ item }) => <DomainItem item={item} keyword={keyword} />}
      />
    </>
  )
}

Correct (stable references, transform inside items):

const renderItem = ({ item }) => <DomainItem tld={item} />

function DomainSearch() {
  const { data: tlds } = useTlds()

  return (
    <LegendList
      // good: as long as the data is stable, LegendList will not re-render the entire list
      data={tlds}
      renderItem={renderItem}
    />
  )
}

function DomainItem({ tld }: { tld: Tld }) {
  // good: transform within items, and don't pass the dynamic data as a prop
  // good: use a selector function from zustand to receive a stable string back
  const domain = useKeywordZustandState((s) => s.keyword + '.' + tld.name)
  return <Text>{domain}</Text>
}

Updating parent array reference:

Creating a new array instance can be okay, as long as its inner object references are stable. For instance, if you sort a list of objects:

// good: creates a new array instance without mutating the inner objects
// good: parent array reference is unaffected by typing and updating "keyword"
const sortedTlds = tlds.toSorted((a, b) => a.name.localeCompare(b.name))

return <LegendList data={sortedTlds} renderItem={renderItem} />

Even though this creates a new array instance sortedTlds, the inner object references are stable.

With zustand for dynamic data (avoids parent re-renders):

const useSearchStore = create<{ keyword: string }>(() => ({ keyword: '' }))

function DomainSearch() {
  const { data: tlds } = useTlds()

  return (
    <>
      <SearchInput />
      <LegendList
        data={tlds}
        // if you aren't using React Compiler, wrap renderItem with useCallback
        renderItem={({ item }) => <DomainItem tld={item} />}
      />
    </>
  )
}

function DomainItem({ tld }: { tld: Tld }) {
  // Select only what you need—component only re-renders when keyword changes
  const keyword = useSearchStore((s) => s.keyword)
  const domain = `${keyword}.${tld.name}`
  return <Text>{domain}</Text>
}

Virtualization can now skip items that haven't changed when typing. Only visible items (~20) re-render on keystroke, rather than the parent.

Deriving state within list items based on parent data (avoids parent re-renders):

For components where the data is conditional based on the parent state, this pattern is even more important. For example, if you are checking if an item is favorited, toggling favorites only re-renders one component if the item itself is in charge of accessing the state rather than the parent:

function DomainItemFavoriteButton({ tld }: { tld: Tld }) {
  const isFavorited = useFavoritesStore((s) => s.favorites.has(tld.id))
  return <TldFavoriteButton isFavorited={isFavorited} />
}

Note: if you're using the React Compiler, you can read React Context values directly within list items. Although this is slightly slower than using a Zustand selector in most cases, the effect may be negligible.

Use Compressed Images in Lists

Always load compressed, appropriately-sized images in lists. Full-resolution images consume excessive memory and cause scroll jank. Request thumbnails from your server or use an image CDN with resize parameters.

Incorrect (full-resolution images):

function ProductItem({ product }: { product: Product }) {
  return (
    <View>
      {/* 4000x3000 image loaded for a 100x100 thumbnail */}
      <Image
        source={{ uri: product.imageUrl }}
        style={{ width: 100, height: 100 }}
      />
      <Text>{product.name}</Text>
    </View>
  )
}

Correct (request appropriately-sized image):

function ProductItem({ product }: { product: Product }) {
  // Request a 200x200 image (2x for retina)
  const thumbnailUrl = `${product.imageUrl}?w=200&h=200&fit=cover`

  return (
    <View>
      <Image
        source={{ uri: thumbnailUrl }}
        style={{ width: 100, height: 100 }}
        contentFit='cover'
      />
      <Text>{product.name}</Text>
    </View>
  )
}

Use an optimized image component with built-in caching and placeholder support, such as expo-image or SolitoImage (which uses expo-image under the hood). Request images at 2x the display size for retina screens.

Avoid Inline Objects in renderItem

Don't create new objects inside renderItem to pass as props. Inline objects create new references on every render, breaking memoization. Pass primitive values directly from item instead.

Incorrect (inline object breaks memoization):

function UserList({ users }: { users: User[] }) {
  return (
    <LegendList
      data={users}
      renderItem={({ item }) => (
        <UserRow
          // Bad: new object on every render
          user={{ id: item.id, name: item.name, avatar: item.avatar }}
        />
      )}
    />
  )
}

Incorrect (inline style object):

renderItem={({ item }) => (
  <UserRow
    name={item.name}
    // Bad: new style object on every render
    style={{ backgroundColor: item.isActive ? 'green' : 'gray' }}
  />
)}

Correct (pass item directly or primitives):

function UserList({ users }: { users: User[] }) {
  return (
    <LegendList
      data={users}
      renderItem={({ item }) => (
        // Good: pass the item directly
        <UserRow user={item} />
      )}
    />
  )
}

Correct (pass primitives, derive inside child):

renderItem={({ item }) => (
  <UserRow
    id={item.id}
    name={item.name}
    isActive={item.isActive}
  />
)}

const UserRow = memo(function UserRow({ id, name, isActive }: Props) {
  // Good: derive style inside memoized component
  const backgroundColor = isActive ? 'green' : 'gray'
  return <View style={[styles.row, { backgroundColor }]}>{/* ... */}</View>
})

Correct (hoist static styles in module scope):

const activeStyle = { backgroundColor: 'green' }
const inactiveStyle = { backgroundColor: 'gray' }

renderItem={({ item }) => (
  <UserRow
    name={item.name}
    // Good: stable references
    style={item.isActive ? activeStyle : inactiveStyle}
  />
)}

Passing primitives or stable references allows memo() to skip re-renders when the actual values haven't changed.

Note: If you have the React Compiler enabled, it handles memoization automatically and these manual optimizations become less critical.

Keep List Items Lightweight

List items should be as inexpensive as possible to render. Minimize hooks, avoid queries, and limit React Context access. Virtualized lists render many items during scroll—expensive items cause jank.

Incorrect (heavy list item):

function ProductRow({ id }: { id: string }) {
  // Bad: query inside list item
  const { data: product } = useQuery(['product', id], () => fetchProduct(id))
  // Bad: multiple context accesses
  const theme = useContext(ThemeContext)
  const user = useContext(UserContext)
  const cart = useContext(CartContext)
  // Bad: expensive computation
  const recommendations = useMemo(
    () => computeRecommendations(product),
    [product]
  )

  return <View>{/* ... */}</View>
}

Correct (lightweight list item):

function ProductRow({ name, price, imageUrl }: Props) {
  // Good: receives only primitives, minimal hooks
  return (
    <View>
      <Image source={{ uri: imageUrl }} />
      <Text>{name}</Text>
      <Text>{price}</Text>
    </View>
  )
}

Move data fetching to parent:

// Parent fetches all data once
function ProductList() {
  const { data: products } = useQuery(['products'], fetchProducts)

  return (
    <LegendList
      data={products}
      renderItem={({ item }) => (
        <ProductRow name={item.name} price={item.price} imageUrl={item.image} />
      )}
    />
  )
}

For shared values, use Zustand selectors instead of Context:

// Incorrect: Context causes re-render when any cart value changes
function ProductRow({ id, name }: Props) {
  const { items } = useContext(CartContext)
  const inCart = items.includes(id)
  // ...
}

// Correct: Zustand selector only re-renders when this specific value changes
function ProductRow({ id, name }: Props) {
  // use Set.has (created once at the root) instead of Array.includes()
  const inCart = useCartStore((s) => s.items.has(id))
  // ...
}

Guidelines for list items:

• No queries or data fetching
• No expensive computations (move to parent or memoize at parent level)
• Prefer Zustand selectors over React Context
• Minimize useState/useEffect hooks
• Pass pre-computed values as props

The goal: list items should be simple rendering functions that take props and return JSX.

Pass Primitives to List Items for Memoization

When possible, pass only primitive values (strings, numbers, booleans) as props to list item components. Primitives enable shallow comparison in memo() to work correctly, skipping re-renders when values haven't changed.

Incorrect (object prop requires deep comparison):

type User = { id: string; name: string; email: string; avatar: string }

const UserRow = memo(function UserRow({ user }: { user: User }) {
  // memo() compares user by reference, not value
  // If parent creates new user object, this re-renders even if data is same
  return <Text>{user.name}</Text>
})

renderItem={({ item }) => <UserRow user={item} />}

This can still be optimized, but it is harder to memoize properly.

Correct (primitive props enable shallow comparison):

const UserRow = memo(function UserRow({
  id,
  name,
  email,
}: {
  id: string
  name: string
  email: string
}) {
  // memo() compares each primitive directly
  // Re-renders only if id, name, or email actually changed
  return <Text>{name}</Text>
})

renderItem={({ item }) => (
  <UserRow id={item.id} name={item.name} email={item.email} />
)}

Pass only what you need:

// Incorrect: passing entire item when you only need name
<UserRow user={item} />

// Correct: pass only the fields the component uses
<UserRow name={item.name} avatarUrl={item.avatar} />

For callbacks, hoist or use item ID:

// Incorrect: inline function creates new reference
<UserRow name={item.name} onPress={() => handlePress(item.id)} />

// Correct: pass ID, handle in child
<UserRow id={item.id} name={item.name} />

const UserRow = memo(function UserRow({ id, name }: Props) {
  const handlePress = useCallback(() => {
    // use id here
  }, [id])
  return <Pressable onPress={handlePress}><Text>{name}</Text></Pressable>
})

Primitive props make memoization predictable and effective.

Note: If you have the React Compiler enabled, you do not need to use memo() or useCallback(), but the object references still apply.

Use Item Types for Heterogeneous Lists

When a list has different item layouts (messages, images, headers, etc.), use a type field on each item and provide getItemType to the list. This puts items into separate recycling pools so a message component never gets recycled into an image component.

Incorrect (single component with conditionals):

type Item = { id: string; text?: string; imageUrl?: string; isHeader?: boolean }

function ListItem({ item }: { item: Item }) {
  if (item.isHeader) {
    return <HeaderItem title={item.text} />
  }
  if (item.imageUrl) {
    return <ImageItem url={item.imageUrl} />
  }
  return <MessageItem text={item.text} />
}

function Feed({ items }: { items: Item[] }) {
  return (
    <LegendList
      data={items}
      renderItem={({ item }) => <ListItem item={item} />}
      recycleItems
    />
  )
}

Correct (typed items with separate components):

type HeaderItem = { id: string; type: 'header'; title: string }
type MessageItem = { id: string; type: 'message'; text: string }
type ImageItem = { id: string; type: 'image'; url: string }
type FeedItem = HeaderItem | MessageItem | ImageItem

function Feed({ items }: { items: FeedItem[] }) {
  return (
    <LegendList
      data={items}
      keyExtractor={(item) => item.id}
      getItemType={(item) => item.type}
      renderItem={({ item }) => {
        switch (item.type) {
          case 'header':
            return <SectionHeader title={item.title} />
          case 'message':
            return <MessageRow text={item.text} />
          case 'image':
            return <ImageRow url={item.url} />
        }
      }}
      recycleItems
    />
  )
}

Why this matters:

• Recycling efficiency: Items with the same type share a recycling pool
• No layout thrashing: A header never recycles into an image cell
• Type safety: TypeScript can narrow the item type in each branch
• Better size estimation: Use getEstimatedItemSize with itemType for

accurate estimates per type

<LegendList
  data={items}
  keyExtractor={(item) => item.id}
  getItemType={(item) => item.type}
  getEstimatedItemSize={(index, item, itemType) => {
    switch (itemType) {
      case 'header':
        return 48
      case 'message':
        return 72
      case 'image':
        return 300
      default:
        return 72
    }
  }}
  renderItem={({ item }) => {
    /* ... */
  }}
  recycleItems
/>

Reference: LegendList getItemType

Use a List Virtualizer for Any List

Use a list virtualizer like LegendList or FlashList instead of ScrollView with mapped children—even for short lists. Virtualizers only render visible items, reducing memory usage and mount time. ScrollView renders all children upfront, which gets expensive quickly.

Incorrect (ScrollView renders all items at once):

function Feed({ items }: { items: Item[] }) {
  return (
    <ScrollView>
      {items.map((item) => (
        <ItemCard key={item.id} item={item} />
      ))}
    </ScrollView>
  )
}
// 50 items = 50 components mounted, even if only 10 visible

Correct (virtualizer renders only visible items):

import { LegendList } from '@legendapp/list'

function Feed({ items }: { items: Item[] }) {
  return (
    <LegendList
      data={items}
      // if you aren't using React Compiler, wrap these with useCallback
      renderItem={({ item }) => <ItemCard item={item} />}
      keyExtractor={(item) => item.id}
      estimatedItemSize={80}
    />
  )
}
// Only ~10-15 visible items mounted at a time

Alternative (FlashList):

import { FlashList } from '@shopify/flash-list'

function Feed({ items }: { items: Item[] }) {
  return (
    <FlashList
      data={items}
      // if you aren't using React Compiler, wrap these with useCallback
      renderItem={({ item }) => <ItemCard item={item} />}
      keyExtractor={(item) => item.id}
    />
  )
}

Benefits apply to any screen with scrollable content—profiles, settings, feeds, search results. Default to virtualization.

Install Native Dependencies in App Directory

In a monorepo, packages with native code must be installed in the native app's directory directly. Autolinking only scans the app's node_modules—it won't find native dependencies installed in other packages.

Incorrect (native dep in shared package only):

packages/
  ui/
    package.json  # has react-native-reanimated
  app/
    package.json  # missing react-native-reanimated

Autolinking fails—native code not linked.

Correct (native dep in app directory):

packages/
  ui/
    package.json  # has react-native-reanimated
  app/
    package.json  # also has react-native-reanimated

// packages/app/package.json
{
  "dependencies": {
    "react-native-reanimated": "3.16.1"
  }
}

Even if the shared package uses the native dependency, the app must also list it for autolinking to detect and link the native code.

Use Single Dependency Versions Across Monorepo

Use a single version of each dependency across all packages in your monorepo. Prefer exact versions over ranges. Multiple versions cause duplicate code in bundles, runtime conflicts, and inconsistent behavior across packages.

Use a tool like syncpack to enforce this. As a last resort, use yarn resolutions or npm overrides.

Incorrect (version ranges, multiple versions):

// packages/app/package.json
{
  "dependencies": {
    "react-native-reanimated": "^3.0.0"
  }
}

// packages/ui/package.json
{
  "dependencies": {
    "react-native-reanimated": "^3.5.0"
  }
}

Correct (exact versions, single source of truth):

// package.json (root)
{
  "pnpm": {
    "overrides": {
      "react-native-reanimated": "3.16.1"
    }
  }
}

// packages/app/package.json
{
  "dependencies": {
    "react-native-reanimated": "3.16.1"
  }
}

// packages/ui/package.json
{
  "dependencies": {
    "react-native-reanimated": "3.16.1"
  }
}

Use your package manager's override/resolution feature to enforce versions at the root. When adding dependencies, specify exact versions without ^ or ~.

Use Native Navigators for Navigation

Always use native navigators instead of JS-based ones. Native navigators use platform APIs (UINavigationController on iOS, Fragment on Android) for better performance and native behavior.

For stacks: Use @react-navigation/native-stack or expo-router's default stack (which uses native-stack). Avoid @react-navigation/stack.

For tabs: Use react-native-bottom-tabs (native) or expo-router's native tabs. Avoid @react-navigation/bottom-tabs when native feel matters.

Stack Navigation

Incorrect (JS stack navigator):

import { createStackNavigator } from '@react-navigation/stack'

const Stack = createStackNavigator()

function App() {
  return (
    <Stack.Navigator>
      <Stack.Screen name='Home' component={HomeScreen} />
      <Stack.Screen name='Details' component={DetailsScreen} />
    </Stack.Navigator>
  )
}

Correct (native stack with react-navigation):

import { createNativeStackNavigator } from '@react-navigation/native-stack'

const Stack = createNativeStackNavigator()

function App() {
  return (
    <Stack.Navigator>
      <Stack.Screen name='Home' component={HomeScreen} />
      <Stack.Screen name='Details' component={DetailsScreen} />
    </Stack.Navigator>
  )
}

Correct (expo-router uses native stack by default):

// app/_layout.tsx
import { Stack } from 'expo-router'

export default function Layout() {
  return <Stack />
}

Tab Navigation

Incorrect (JS bottom tabs):

import { createBottomTabNavigator } from '@react-navigation/bottom-tabs'

const Tab = createBottomTabNavigator()

function App() {
  return (
    <Tab.Navigator>
      <Tab.Screen name='Home' component={HomeScreen} />
      <Tab.Screen name='Settings' component={SettingsScreen} />
    </Tab.Navigator>
  )
}

Correct (native bottom tabs with react-navigation):

import { createNativeBottomTabNavigator } from '@bottom-tabs/react-navigation'

const Tab = createNativeBottomTabNavigator()

function App() {
  return (
    <Tab.Navigator>
      <Tab.Screen
        name='Home'
        component={HomeScreen}
        options={{
          tabBarIcon: () => ({ sfSymbol: 'house' }),
        }}
      />
      <Tab.Screen
        name='Settings'
        component={SettingsScreen}
        options={{
          tabBarIcon: () => ({ sfSymbol: 'gear' }),
        }}
      />
    </Tab.Navigator>
  )
}

Correct (expo-router native tabs):

// app/(tabs)/_layout.tsx
import { NativeTabs } from 'expo-router/unstable-native-tabs'

export default function TabLayout() {
  return (
    <NativeTabs>
      <NativeTabs.Trigger name='index'>
        <NativeTabs.Trigger.Label>Home</NativeTabs.Trigger.Label>
        <NativeTabs.Trigger.Icon sf='house.fill' md='home' />
      </NativeTabs.Trigger>
      <NativeTabs.Trigger name='settings'>
        <NativeTabs.Trigger.Label>Settings</NativeTabs.Trigger.Label>
        <NativeTabs.Trigger.Icon sf='gear' md='settings' />
      </NativeTabs.Trigger>
    </NativeTabs>
  )
}

On iOS, native tabs automatically enable contentInsetAdjustmentBehavior on the first ScrollView at the root of each tab screen, so content scrolls correctly behind the translucent tab bar. If you need to disable this, use disableAutomaticContentInsets on the trigger.

Prefer Native Header Options Over Custom Components

Incorrect (custom header component):

<Stack.Screen
  name='Profile'
  component={ProfileScreen}
  options={{
    header: () => <CustomHeader title='Profile' />,
  }}
/>

Correct (native header options):

<Stack.Screen
  name='Profile'
  component={ProfileScreen}
  options={{
    title: 'Profile',
    headerLargeTitleEnabled: true,
    headerSearchBarOptions: {
      placeholder: 'Search',
    },
  }}
/>

Native headers support iOS large titles, search bars, blur effects, and proper safe area handling automatically.

Why Native Navigators

• Performance: Native transitions and gestures run on the UI thread
• Platform behavior: Automatic iOS large titles, Android material design
• System integration: Scroll-to-top on tab tap, PiP avoidance, proper safe

areas

• Accessibility: Platform accessibility features work automatically

Reference:

• React Navigation Native Stack
• React Native Bottom Tabs with React Navigation
• React Native Bottom Tabs with Expo Router
• Expo Router Native Tabs

Destructure Functions Early in Render

This rule is only applicable if you are using the React Compiler.

Destructure functions from hooks at the top of render scope. Never dot into objects to call functions. Destructured functions are stable references; dotting creates new references and breaks memoization.

Incorrect (dotting into object):

import { useRouter } from 'expo-router'

function SaveButton(props) {
  const router = useRouter()

  // bad: react-compiler will key the cache on "props" and "router", which are objects that change each render
  const handlePress = () => {
    props.onSave()
    router.push('/success') // unstable reference
  }

  return <Button onPress={handlePress}>Save</Button>
}

Correct (destructure early):

import { useRouter } from 'expo-router'

function SaveButton({ onSave }) {
  const { push } = useRouter()

  // good: react-compiler will key on push and onSave
  const handlePress = () => {
    onSave()
    push('/success') // stable reference
  }

  return <Button onPress={handlePress}>Save</Button>
}

Use .get() and .set() for Shared Values with React Compiler

With React Compiler enabled, use .get() and .set() instead of reading or writing .value directly on Reanimated shared values. The compiler can't track property access—explicit methods ensure correct behavior.

Incorrect (breaks with React Compiler):

import { useSharedValue } from 'react-native-reanimated'

function Counter() {
  const count = useSharedValue(0)

  const increment = () => {
    count.value = count.value + 1 // opts out of react compiler
  }

  return <Button onPress={increment} title={`Count: ${count.value}`} />
}

Correct (React Compiler compatible):

import { useSharedValue } from 'react-native-reanimated'

function Counter() {
  const count = useSharedValue(0)

  const increment = () => {
    count.set(count.get() + 1)
  }

  return <Button onPress={increment} title={`Count: ${count.get()}`} />
}

See the Reanimated docs for more.

Use Dispatch Updaters for State That Depends on Current Value

When the next state depends on the current state, use a dispatch updater (setState(prev => ...)) instead of reading the state variable directly in a callback. This avoids stale closures and ensures you're comparing against the latest value.

Incorrect (reads state directly):

const [size, setSize] = useState<Size | undefined>(undefined)

const onLayout = (e: LayoutChangeEvent) => {
  const { width, height } = e.nativeEvent.layout
  // size may be stale in this closure
  if (size?.width !== width || size?.height !== height) {
    setSize({ width, height })
  }
}

Correct (dispatch updater):

const [size, setSize] = useState<Size | undefined>(undefined)

const onLayout = (e: LayoutChangeEvent) => {
  const { width, height } = e.nativeEvent.layout
  setSize((prev) => {
    if (prev?.width === width && prev?.height === height) return prev
    return { width, height }
  })
}

Returning the previous value from the updater skips the re-render.

For primitive states, you don't need to compare values before firing a re-render.

Incorrect (unnecessary comparison for primitive state):

const [size, setSize] = useState<Size | undefined>(undefined)

const onLayout = (e: LayoutChangeEvent) => {
  const { width, height } = e.nativeEvent.layout
  setSize((prev) => (prev === width ? prev : width))
}

Correct (sets primitive state directly):

const [size, setSize] = useState<Size | undefined>(undefined)

const onLayout = (e: LayoutChangeEvent) => {
  const { width, height } = e.nativeEvent.layout
  setSize(width)
}

However, if the next state depends on the current state, you should still use a dispatch updater.

Incorrect (reads state directly from the callback):

const [count, setCount] = useState(0)

const onTap = () => {
  setCount(count + 1)
}

Correct (dispatch updater):

const [count, setCount] = useState(0)

const onTap = () => {
  setCount((prev) => prev + 1)
}

Use fallback state instead of initialState

Use undefined as initial state and nullish coalescing (??) to fall back to parent or server values. State represents user intent only—undefined means "user hasn't chosen yet." This enables reactive fallbacks that update when the source changes, not just on initial render.

Incorrect (syncs state, loses reactivity):

type Props = { fallbackEnabled: boolean }

function Toggle({ fallbackEnabled }: Props) {
  const [enabled, setEnabled] = useState(defaultEnabled)
  // If fallbackEnabled changes, state is stale
  // State mixes user intent with default value

  return <Switch value={enabled} onValueChange={setEnabled} />
}

Correct (state is user intent, reactive fallback):

type Props = { fallbackEnabled: boolean }

function Toggle({ fallbackEnabled }: Props) {
  const [_enabled, setEnabled] = useState<boolean | undefined>(undefined)
  const enabled = _enabled ?? defaultEnabled
  // undefined = user hasn't touched it, falls back to prop
  // If defaultEnabled changes, component reflects it
  // Once user interacts, their choice persists

  return <Switch value={enabled} onValueChange={setEnabled} />
}

With server data:

function ProfileForm({ data }: { data: User }) {
  const [_theme, setTheme] = useState<string | undefined>(undefined)
  const theme = _theme ?? data.theme
  // Shows server value until user overrides
  // Server refetch updates the fallback automatically

  return <ThemePicker value={theme} onChange={setTheme} />
}

Minimize State Variables and Derive Values

Use the fewest state variables possible. If a value can be computed from existing state or props, derive it during render instead of storing it in state. Redundant state causes unnecessary re-renders and can drift out of sync.

Incorrect (redundant state):

function Cart({ items }: { items: Item[] }) {
  const [total, setTotal] = useState(0)
  const [itemCount, setItemCount] = useState(0)

  useEffect(() => {
    setTotal(items.reduce((sum, item) => sum + item.price, 0))
    setItemCount(items.length)
  }, [items])

  return (
    <View>
      <Text>{itemCount} items</Text>
      <Text>Total: ${total}</Text>
    </View>
  )
}

Correct (derived values):

function Cart({ items }: { items: Item[] }) {
  const total = items.reduce((sum, item) => sum + item.price, 0)
  const itemCount = items.length

  return (
    <View>
      <Text>{itemCount} items</Text>
      <Text>Total: ${total}</Text>
    </View>
  )
}

Another example:

// Incorrect: storing both firstName, lastName, AND fullName
const [firstName, setFirstName] = useState('')
const [lastName, setLastName] = useState('')
const [fullName, setFullName] = useState('')

// Correct: derive fullName
const [firstName, setFirstName] = useState('')
const [lastName, setLastName] = useState('')
const fullName = `${firstName} ${lastName}`

State should be the minimal source of truth. Everything else is derived.

Reference: Choosing the State Structure

Never Use && with Potentially Falsy Values

Never use {value && <Component />} when value could be an empty string or 0. These are falsy but JSX-renderable—React Native will try to render them as text outside a <Text> component, causing a hard crash in production.

Incorrect (crashes if count is 0 or name is ""):

function Profile({ name, count }: { name: string; count: number }) {
  return (
    <View>
      {name && <Text>{name}</Text>}
      {count && <Text>{count} items</Text>}
    </View>
  )
}
// If name="" or count=0, renders the falsy value → crash

Correct (ternary with null):

function Profile({ name, count }: { name: string; count: number }) {
  return (
    <View>
      {name ? <Text>{name}</Text> : null}
      {count ? <Text>{count} items</Text> : null}
    </View>
  )
}

Correct (explicit boolean coercion):

function Profile({ name, count }: { name: string; count: number }) {
  return (
    <View>
      {!!name && <Text>{name}</Text>}
      {!!count && <Text>{count} items</Text>}
    </View>
  )
}

Best (early return):

function Profile({ name, count }: { name: string; count: number }) {
  if (!name) return null

  return (
    <View>
      <Text>{name}</Text>
      {count > 0 ? <Text>{count} items</Text> : null}
    </View>
  )
}

Early returns are clearest. When using conditionals inline, prefer ternary or explicit boolean checks.

Lint rule: Enable react/jsx-no-leaked-render from eslint-plugin-react to catch this automatically.

Wrap Strings in Text Components

Strings must be rendered inside <Text>. React Native crashes if a string is a direct child of <View>.

Incorrect (crashes):

import { View } from 'react-native'

function Greeting({ name }: { name: string }) {
  return <View>Hello, {name}!</View>
}
// Error: Text strings must be rendered within a <Text> component.

Correct:

import { View, Text } from 'react-native'

function Greeting({ name }: { name: string }) {
  return (
    <View>
      <Text>Hello, {name}!</Text>
    </View>
  )
}

Never Track Scroll Position in useState

Never store scroll position in useState. Scroll events fire rapidly—state updates cause render thrashing and dropped frames. Use a Reanimated shared value for animations or a ref for non-reactive tracking.

Incorrect (useState causes jank):

import { useState } from 'react'
import {
  ScrollView,
  NativeSyntheticEvent,
  NativeScrollEvent,
} from 'react-native'

function Feed() {
  const [scrollY, setScrollY] = useState(0)

  const onScroll = (e: NativeSyntheticEvent<NativeScrollEvent>) => {
    setScrollY(e.nativeEvent.contentOffset.y) // re-renders on every frame
  }

  return <ScrollView onScroll={onScroll} scrollEventThrottle={16} />
}

Correct (Reanimated for animations):

import Animated, {
  useSharedValue,
  useAnimatedScrollHandler,
} from 'react-native-reanimated'

function Feed() {
  const scrollY = useSharedValue(0)

  const onScroll = useAnimatedScrollHandler({
    onScroll: (e) => {
      scrollY.value = e.contentOffset.y // runs on UI thread, no re-render
    },
  })

  return (
    <Animated.ScrollView
      onScroll={onScroll}
      // higher number has better performance, but it fires less often.
      // unset this if you need higher precision over performance.
      scrollEventThrottle={16}
    />
  )
}

Correct (ref for non-reactive tracking):

import { useRef } from 'react'
import {
  ScrollView,
  NativeSyntheticEvent,
  NativeScrollEvent,
} from 'react-native'

function Feed() {
  const scrollY = useRef(0)

  const onScroll = (e: NativeSyntheticEvent<NativeScrollEvent>) => {
    scrollY.current = e.nativeEvent.contentOffset.y // no re-render
  }

  return <ScrollView onScroll={onScroll} scrollEventThrottle={16} />
}

State Must Represent Ground Truth

State variables—both React useState and Reanimated shared values—should represent the actual state of something (e.g., pressed, progress, isOpen), not derived visual values (e.g., scale, opacity, translateY). Derive visual values from state using computation or interpolation.

Incorrect (storing the visual output):

const scale = useSharedValue(1)

const tap = Gesture.Tap()
  .onBegin(() => {
    scale.set(withTiming(0.95))
  })
  .onFinalize(() => {
    scale.set(withTiming(1))
  })

const animatedStyle = useAnimatedStyle(() => ({
  transform: [{ scale: scale.get() }],
}))

Correct (storing the state, deriving the visual):

const pressed = useSharedValue(0) // 0 = not pressed, 1 = pressed

const tap = Gesture.Tap()
  .onBegin(() => {
    pressed.set(withTiming(1))
  })
  .onFinalize(() => {
    pressed.set(withTiming(0))
  })

const animatedStyle = useAnimatedStyle(() => ({
  transform: [{ scale: interpolate(pressed.get(), [0, 1], [1, 0.95]) }],
}))

Why this matters:

State variables should represent real "state", not necessarily a desired end result.

1. Single source of truth — The state (pressed) describes what's happening; visuals are derived 2. Easier to extend — Adding opacity, rotation, or other effects just requires more interpolations from the same state 3. Debugging — Inspecting pressed = 1 is clearer than scale = 0.95 4. Reusable logic — The same pressed value can drive multiple visual properties

Same principle for React state:

// Incorrect: storing derived values
const [isExpanded, setIsExpanded] = useState(false)
const [height, setHeight] = useState(0)

useEffect(() => {
  setHeight(isExpanded ? 200 : 0)
}, [isExpanded])

// Correct: derive from state
const [isExpanded, setIsExpanded] = useState(false)
const height = isExpanded ? 200 : 0

State is the minimal truth. Everything else is derived.

Use expo-image for Optimized Images

Use expo-image instead of React Native's Image. It provides memory-efficient caching, blurhash placeholders, progressive loading, and better performance for lists.

Incorrect (React Native Image):

import { Image } from 'react-native'

function Avatar({ url }: { url: string }) {
  return <Image source={{ uri: url }} style={styles.avatar} />
}

Correct (expo-image):

import { Image } from 'expo-image'

function Avatar({ url }: { url: string }) {
  return <Image source={{ uri: url }} style={styles.avatar} />
}

With blurhash placeholder:

<Image
  source={{ uri: url }}
  placeholder={{ blurhash: 'LGF5]+Yk^6#M@-5c,1J5@[or[Q6.' }}
  contentFit="cover"
  transition={200}
  style={styles.image}
/>

With priority and caching:

<Image
  source={{ uri: url }}
  priority="high"
  cachePolicy="memory-disk"
  style={styles.hero}
/>

Key props:

• placeholder — Blurhash or thumbnail while loading
• contentFit — cover, contain, fill, scale-down
• transition — Fade-in duration (ms)
• priority — low, normal, high
• cachePolicy — memory, disk, memory-disk, none
• recyclingKey — Unique key for list recycling

For cross-platform (web + native), use SolitoImage from solito/image which uses expo-image under the hood.

Reference: expo-image

Use Galeria for Image Galleries and Lightbox

For image galleries with lightbox (tap to fullscreen), use @nandorojo/galeria. It provides native shared element transitions with pinch-to-zoom, double-tap zoom, and pan-to-close. Works with any image component including expo-image.

Incorrect (custom modal implementation):

function ImageGallery({ urls }: { urls: string[] }) {
  const [selected, setSelected] = useState<string | null>(null)

  return (
    <>
      {urls.map((url) => (
        <Pressable key={url} onPress={() => setSelected(url)}>
          <Image source={{ uri: url }} style={styles.thumbnail} />
        </Pressable>
      ))}
      <Modal visible={!!selected} onRequestClose={() => setSelected(null)}>
        <Image source={{ uri: selected! }} style={styles.fullscreen} />
      </Modal>
    </>
  )
}

Correct (Galeria with expo-image):

import { Galeria } from '@nandorojo/galeria'
import { Image } from 'expo-image'

function ImageGallery({ urls }: { urls: string[] }) {
  return (
    <Galeria urls={urls}>
      {urls.map((url, index) => (
        <Galeria.Image index={index} key={url}>
          <Image source={{ uri: url }} style={styles.thumbnail} />
        </Galeria.Image>
      ))}
    </Galeria>
  )
}

Single image:

import { Galeria } from '@nandorojo/galeria'
import { Image } from 'expo-image'

function Avatar({ url }: { url: string }) {
  return (
    <Galeria urls={[url]}>
      <Galeria.Image>
        <Image source={{ uri: url }} style={styles.avatar} />
      </Galeria.Image>
    </Galeria>
  )
}

With low-res thumbnails and high-res fullscreen:

<Galeria urls={highResUrls}>
  {lowResUrls.map((url, index) => (
    <Galeria.Image index={index} key={url}>
      <Image source={{ uri: url }} style={styles.thumbnail} />
    </Galeria.Image>
  ))}
</Galeria>

With FlashList:

<Galeria urls={urls}>
  <FlashList
    data={urls}
    renderItem={({ item, index }) => (
      <Galeria.Image index={index}>
        <Image source={{ uri: item }} style={styles.thumbnail} />
      </Galeria.Image>
    )}
    numColumns={3}
    estimatedItemSize={100}
  />
</Galeria>

Works with expo-image, SolitoImage, react-native Image, or any image component.

Reference: Galeria

Measuring View Dimensions

Use both useLayoutEffect (synchronous) and onLayout (for updates). The sync measurement gives you the initial size immediately; onLayout keeps it current when the view changes. For non-primitive states, use a dispatch updater to compare values and avoid unnecessary re-renders.

Height only:

import { useLayoutEffect, useRef, useState } from 'react'
import { View, LayoutChangeEvent } from 'react-native'

function MeasuredBox({ children }: { children: React.ReactNode }) {
  const ref = useRef<View>(null)
  const [height, setHeight] = useState<number | undefined>(undefined)

  useLayoutEffect(() => {
    // Sync measurement on mount (RN 0.82+)
    const rect = ref.current?.getBoundingClientRect()
    if (rect) setHeight(rect.height)
    // Pre-0.82: ref.current?.measure((x, y, w, h) => setHeight(h))
  }, [])

  const onLayout = (e: LayoutChangeEvent) => {
    setHeight(e.nativeEvent.layout.height)
  }

  return (
    <View ref={ref} onLayout={onLayout}>
      {children}
    </View>
  )
}

Both dimensions:

import { useLayoutEffect, useRef, useState } from 'react'
import { View, LayoutChangeEvent } from 'react-native'

type Size = { width: number; height: number }

function MeasuredBox({ children }: { children: React.ReactNode }) {
  const ref = useRef<View>(null)
  const [size, setSize] = useState<Size | undefined>(undefined)

  useLayoutEffect(() => {
    const rect = ref.current?.getBoundingClientRect()
    if (rect) setSize({ width: rect.width, height: rect.height })
  }, [])

  const onLayout = (e: LayoutChangeEvent) => {
    const { width, height } = e.nativeEvent.layout
    setSize((prev) => {
      // for non-primitive states, compare values before firing a re-render
      if (prev?.width === width && prev?.height === height) return prev
      return { width, height }
    })
  }

  return (
    <View ref={ref} onLayout={onLayout}>
      {children}
    </View>
  )
}

Use functional setState to compare—don't read state directly in the callback.

Use Native Menus for Dropdowns and Context Menus

Use native platform menus instead of custom JS implementations. Native menus provide built-in accessibility, consistent platform UX, and better performance. Use zeego for cross-platform native menus.

Incorrect (custom JS menu):

import { useState } from 'react'
import { View, Pressable, Text } from 'react-native'

function MyMenu() {
  const [open, setOpen] = useState(false)

  return (
    <View>
      <Pressable onPress={() => setOpen(!open)}>
        <Text>Open Menu</Text>
      </Pressable>
      {open && (
        <View style={{ position: 'absolute', top: 40 }}>
          <Pressable onPress={() => console.log('edit')}>
            <Text>Edit</Text>
          </Pressable>
          <Pressable onPress={() => console.log('delete')}>
            <Text>Delete</Text>
          </Pressable>
        </View>
      )}
    </View>
  )
}

Correct (native menu with zeego):

import * as DropdownMenu from 'zeego/dropdown-menu'

function MyMenu() {
  return (
    <DropdownMenu.Root>
      <DropdownMenu.Trigger>
        <Pressable>
          <Text>Open Menu</Text>
        </Pressable>
      </DropdownMenu.Trigger>

      <DropdownMenu.Content>
        <DropdownMenu.Item key='edit' onSelect={() => console.log('edit')}>
          <DropdownMenu.ItemTitle>Edit</DropdownMenu.ItemTitle>
        </DropdownMenu.Item>

        <DropdownMenu.Item
          key='delete'
          destructive
          onSelect={() => console.log('delete')}
        >
          <DropdownMenu.ItemTitle>Delete</DropdownMenu.ItemTitle>
        </DropdownMenu.Item>
      </DropdownMenu.Content>
    </DropdownMenu.Root>
  )
}

Context menu (long-press):

import * as ContextMenu from 'zeego/context-menu'

function MyContextMenu() {
  return (
    <ContextMenu.Root>
      <ContextMenu.Trigger>
        <View style={{ padding: 20 }}>
          <Text>Long press me</Text>
        </View>
      </ContextMenu.Trigger>

      <ContextMenu.Content>
        <ContextMenu.Item key='copy' onSelect={() => console.log('copy')}>
          <ContextMenu.ItemTitle>Copy</ContextMenu.ItemTitle>
        </ContextMenu.Item>

        <ContextMenu.Item key='paste' onSelect={() => console.log('paste')}>
          <ContextMenu.ItemTitle>Paste</ContextMenu.ItemTitle>
        </ContextMenu.Item>
      </ContextMenu.Content>
    </ContextMenu.Root>
  )
}

Checkbox items:

import * as DropdownMenu from 'zeego/dropdown-menu'

function SettingsMenu() {
  const [notifications, setNotifications] = useState(true)

  return (
    <DropdownMenu.Root>
      <DropdownMenu.Trigger>
        <Pressable>
          <Text>Settings</Text>
        </Pressable>
      </DropdownMenu.Trigger>

      <DropdownMenu.Content>
        <DropdownMenu.CheckboxItem
          key='notifications'
          value={notifications}
          onValueChange={() => setNotifications((prev) => !prev)}
        >
          <DropdownMenu.ItemIndicator />
          <DropdownMenu.ItemTitle>Notifications</DropdownMenu.ItemTitle>
        </DropdownMenu.CheckboxItem>
      </DropdownMenu.Content>
    </DropdownMenu.Root>
  )
}

Submenus:

import * as DropdownMenu from 'zeego/dropdown-menu'

function MenuWithSubmenu() {
  return (
    <DropdownMenu.Root>
      <DropdownMenu.Trigger>
        <Pressable>
          <Text>Options</Text>
        </Pressable>
      </DropdownMenu.Trigger>

      <DropdownMenu.Content>
        <DropdownMenu.Item key='home' onSelect={() => console.log('home')}>
          <DropdownMenu.ItemTitle>Home</DropdownMenu.ItemTitle>
        </DropdownMenu.Item>

        <DropdownMenu.Sub>
          <DropdownMenu.SubTrigger key='more'>
            <DropdownMenu.ItemTitle>More Options</DropdownMenu.ItemTitle>
          </DropdownMenu.SubTrigger>

          <DropdownMenu.SubContent>
            <DropdownMenu.Item key='settings'>
              <DropdownMenu.ItemTitle>Settings</DropdownMenu.ItemTitle>
            </DropdownMenu.Item>

            <DropdownMenu.Item key='help'>
              <DropdownMenu.ItemTitle>Help</DropdownMenu.ItemTitle>
            </DropdownMenu.Item>
          </DropdownMenu.SubContent>
        </DropdownMenu.Sub>
      </DropdownMenu.Content>
    </DropdownMenu.Root>
  )
}

Reference: Zeego Documentation

Use Native Modals Over JS-Based Bottom Sheets

Use native <Modal> with presentationStyle="formSheet" or React Navigation v7's native form sheet instead of JS-based bottom sheet libraries. Native modals have built-in gestures, accessibility, and better performance. Rely on native UI for low-level primitives.

Incorrect (JS-based bottom sheet):

import BottomSheet from 'custom-js-bottom-sheet'

function MyScreen() {
  const sheetRef = useRef<BottomSheet>(null)

  return (
    <View style={{ flex: 1 }}>
      <Button onPress={() => sheetRef.current?.expand()} title='Open' />
      <BottomSheet ref={sheetRef} snapPoints={['50%', '90%']}>
        <View>
          <Text>Sheet content</Text>
        </View>
      </BottomSheet>
    </View>
  )
}

Correct (native Modal with formSheet):

import { Modal, View, Text, Button } from 'react-native'

function MyScreen() {
  const [visible, setVisible] = useState(false)

  return (
    <View style={{ flex: 1 }}>
      <Button onPress={() => setVisible(true)} title='Open' />
      <Modal
        visible={visible}
        presentationStyle='formSheet'
        animationType='slide'
        onRequestClose={() => setVisible(false)}
      >
        <View>
          <Text>Sheet content</Text>
        </View>
      </Modal>
    </View>
  )
}

Correct (React Navigation v7 native form sheet):

// In your navigator
<Stack.Screen
  name='Details'
  component={DetailsScreen}
  options={{
    presentation: 'formSheet',
    sheetAllowedDetents: 'fitToContents',
  }}
/>

Native modals provide swipe-to-dismiss, proper keyboard avoidance, and accessibility out of the box.

Use Pressable Instead of Touchable Components

Never use TouchableOpacity or TouchableHighlight. Use Pressable from react-native or react-native-gesture-handler instead.

Incorrect (legacy Touchable components):

import { TouchableOpacity } from 'react-native'

function MyButton({ onPress }: { onPress: () => void }) {
  return (
    <TouchableOpacity onPress={onPress} activeOpacity={0.7}>
      <Text>Press me</Text>
    </TouchableOpacity>
  )
}

Correct (Pressable):

import { Pressable } from 'react-native'

function MyButton({ onPress }: { onPress: () => void }) {
  return (
    <Pressable onPress={onPress}>
      <Text>Press me</Text>
    </Pressable>
  )
}

Correct (Pressable from gesture handler for lists):

import { Pressable } from 'react-native-gesture-handler'

function ListItem({ onPress }: { onPress: () => void }) {
  return (
    <Pressable onPress={onPress}>
      <Text>Item</Text>
    </Pressable>
  )
}

Use react-native-gesture-handler Pressable inside scrollable lists for better gesture coordination, as long as you are using the ScrollView from react-native-gesture-handler as well.

For animated press states (scale, opacity changes): Use GestureDetector with Reanimated shared values instead of Pressable's style callback. See the animation-gesture-detector-press rule.

Use contentInsetAdjustmentBehavior for Safe Areas

Use contentInsetAdjustmentBehavior="automatic" on the root ScrollView instead of wrapping content in SafeAreaView or manual padding. This lets iOS handle safe area insets natively with proper scroll behavior.

Incorrect (SafeAreaView wrapper):

import { SafeAreaView, ScrollView, View, Text } from 'react-native'

function MyScreen() {
  return (
    <SafeAreaView style={{ flex: 1 }}>
      <ScrollView>
        <View>
          <Text>Content</Text>
        </View>
      </ScrollView>
    </SafeAreaView>
  )
}

Incorrect (manual safe area padding):

import { ScrollView, View, Text } from 'react-native'
import { useSafeAreaInsets } from 'react-native-safe-area-context'

function MyScreen() {
  const insets = useSafeAreaInsets()

  return (
    <ScrollView contentContainerStyle={{ paddingTop: insets.top }}>
      <View>
        <Text>Content</Text>
      </View>
    </ScrollView>
  )
}

Correct (native content inset adjustment):

import { ScrollView, View, Text } from 'react-native'

function MyScreen() {
  return (
    <ScrollView contentInsetAdjustmentBehavior='automatic'>
      <View>
        <Text>Content</Text>
      </View>
    </ScrollView>
  )
}

The native approach handles dynamic safe areas (keyboard, toolbars) and allows content to scroll behind the status bar naturally.

Use contentInset for Dynamic ScrollView Spacing

When adding space to the top or bottom of a ScrollView that may change (keyboard, toolbars, dynamic content), use contentInset instead of padding. Changing contentInset doesn't trigger layout recalculation—it adjusts the scroll area without re-rendering content.

Incorrect (padding causes layout recalculation):

function Feed({ bottomOffset }: { bottomOffset: number }) {
  return (
    <ScrollView contentContainerStyle={{ paddingBottom: bottomOffset }}>
      {children}
    </ScrollView>
  )
}
// Changing bottomOffset triggers full layout recalculation

Correct (contentInset for dynamic spacing):

function Feed({ bottomOffset }: { bottomOffset: number }) {
  return (
    <ScrollView
      contentInset={{ bottom: bottomOffset }}
      scrollIndicatorInsets={{ bottom: bottomOffset }}
    >
      {children}
    </ScrollView>
  )
}
// Changing bottomOffset only adjusts scroll bounds

Use scrollIndicatorInsets alongside contentInset to keep the scroll indicator aligned. For static spacing that never changes, padding is fine.

Modern React Native Styling Patterns

Follow these styling patterns for cleaner, more consistent React Native code.

Always use `borderCurve: 'continuous'` with `borderRadius`:

// Incorrect
{ borderRadius: 12 }

// Correct – smoother iOS-style corners
{ borderRadius: 12, borderCurve: 'continuous' }

Use `gap` instead of margin for spacing between elements:

// Incorrect – margin on children
<View>
  <Text style={{ marginBottom: 8 }}>Title</Text>
  <Text style={{ marginBottom: 8 }}>Subtitle</Text>
</View>

// Correct – gap on parent
<View style={{ gap: 8 }}>
  <Text>Title</Text>
  <Text>Subtitle</Text>
</View>

Use `padding` for space within, `gap` for space between:

<View style={{ padding: 16, gap: 12 }}>
  <Text>First</Text>
  <Text>Second</Text>
</View>

Use `experimental_backgroundImage` for linear gradients:

// Incorrect – third-party gradient library
<LinearGradient colors={['#000', '#fff']} />

// Correct – native CSS gradient syntax
<View
  style={{
    experimental_backgroundImage: 'linear-gradient(to bottom, #000, #fff)',
  }}
/>

Use CSS `boxShadow` string syntax for shadows:

// Incorrect – legacy shadow objects or elevation
{ shadowColor: '#000', shadowOffset: { width: 0, height: 2 }, shadowOpacity: 0.1 }
{ elevation: 4 }

// Correct – CSS box-shadow syntax
{ boxShadow: '0 2px 8px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.1)' }

Avoid multiple font sizes – use weight and color for emphasis:

// Incorrect – varying font sizes for hierarchy
<Text style={{ fontSize: 18 }}>Title</Text>
<Text style={{ fontSize: 14 }}>Subtitle</Text>
<Text style={{ fontSize: 12 }}>Caption</Text>

// Correct – consistent size, vary weight and color
<Text style={{ fontWeight: '600' }}>Title</Text>
<Text style={{ color: '#666' }}>Subtitle</Text>
<Text style={{ color: '#999' }}>Caption</Text>

Limiting font sizes creates visual consistency. Use fontWeight (bold/semibold) and grayscale colors for hierarchy instead.