Introduction to the parseInt function in JavaScript

javascript global objects parseint
01 December 2024

Explanation about the parseInt function in JavaScript


The parseInt function is a commonly used function in JavaScript that is used to convert strings into valid integers. This function has many applications in data processing and can help you in situations that require numerical conversions. The operation of this function is very simple, but there are points that you should pay attention to, especially when dealing with complex strings or those with specific formatting.


In fact, parseInt takes a string as an input and converts it into a valid integer whenever possible. If there are characters in the string that cannot be interpreted as a valid number, parseInt will stop converting at that point and return the result up to that position. This point is very important since it may lead to unexpected results in some cases.


The parseInt function has a second optional parameter called radix, which determines the base of the number being parsed. This parameter specifies what base the number is in (for example: binary, decimal, hexadecimal). By default, this value is for numbers that start with '0x' or '0X' indicating hexadecimal and for other cases it is considered decimal.


Due to the possible errors in the result, it is always recommended to use this radix parameter explicitly. This action also increases the clarity and transparency of your code. As a programmer, even if your inputs are controlled and defined, you should always consider that changes might exist, and this issue could indicate to you.


<script>
const number1 = parseInt('42');
const number2 = parseInt('1010', 2);
const number3 = parseInt('2F', 16);
const number4 = parseInt('123abc');
</script>

Line-by-line explanation of the code


<script>:
Beginning of the JavaScript code section.
const number1 = parseInt('42');:
The string '42' is converted into the integer 42.
const number2 = parseInt('1010', 2);:
The string '1010' in base 2 is converted into the integer 10.
const number3 = parseInt('2F', 16);:
The string '2F' in base 16 is converted into the integer 47.
const number4 = parseInt('123abc');:
The string '123abc' converts to the integer 123 before the 'abc' since 'abc' are not valid integers.
</script>:
The end of the JavaScript code section.

FAQ

?

Why should we use the second parameter parseInt named radix?

?

What happens if a non-integer character is present in the string?

?

Can parseInt be used to convert floating point values?