GET

Definition

An HTTP method used to request data from a specified resource. It should ONLY be used to retrieve data and should have no other effect on the server.

Explain Like I'm New

When you visit a website, your browser sends a GET request. It is the internet equivalent of saying 'Please show me this document.' It does not delete, change, or create anything.

Real World Example

Fetching a user's profile data (`GET /api/users/123`) or fetching a list of active products (`GET /api/products?active=true`).

Common Use Cases

•Fetching HTML pages
•Retrieving JSON data
•Downloading images

Interactive Example

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Interview Questions

basic

Should a GET request be used to submit a password reset form?

intermediate

Why are GET requests considered 'Safe' and 'Idempotent'?

Flash Cards

Question

Use for forms?

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Answer

No! GET request parameters are appended to the URL (e.g., `?password=123`). This means the password would be visible in the browser history and server logs. Always use POST for sensitive data.

Question

Safe and Idempotent?

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Answer

'Safe' means calling it doesn't change anything on the server. 'Idempotent' means calling it 1 time has the exact same effect as calling it 1,000 times (it just returns the same data without corrupting the database).