POST

Definition

An HTTP method used to send data to a server to CREATE a new resource.

Explain Like I'm New

If GET is reading a book, POST is writing a completely new book. The client bundles up a package of data (like a filled-out signup form) and hands it to the server. The server takes that data and creates something new in its database.

Real World Example

Creating a new Twitter account. Submitting a new comment on a YouTube video. Uploading a photo to Instagram.

Common Use Cases

•Creating database records
•Uploading files
•Submitting secure forms

Interactive Example

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Interview Questions

basic

Where is the data placed in a POST request?

intermediate

Is a POST request Idempotent?

Flash Cards

Question

Where is data placed?

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Answer

In the HTTP Request Body. Unlike GET requests, POST data is hidden inside the body payload, not exposed in the URL.

Question

Is it Idempotent?

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Answer

NO! Calling POST 1 time creates 1 user. Calling POST 10 times creates 10 duplicate users. It is not idempotent because the server state changes every single time.