In this complete Node.js tutorial for 2025, you’ll learn how to use REPL (Read-Eval-Print Loop) in Node.js to quickly test JavaScript code, debug programs, and explore Node.js features in real-time. REPL is an interactive environment that allows developers to enter JavaScript commands and see the results instantly, making it an essential tool for learning, experimenting, and troubleshooting.
Whether you’re a beginner exploring Node.js for the first time or an experienced backend developer looking to speed up your workflow, understanding REPL will save you time and enhance your coding efficiency.
In this tutorial, we’ll cover:
What is REPL in Node.js and how it works
How to open the Node.js REPL from your terminal or command prompt
The four key steps of REPL: Read, Eval, Print, and Loop
Executing JavaScript code interactively inside REPL
Using REPL to debug Node.js scripts and test code snippets instantly
Navigating through REPL commands (.help, .exit, .save, .load)
Understanding variable scope inside REPL
Using REPL to interact with Node.js modules
Common REPL shortcuts and productivity tips
Differences between REPL and running a full Node.js script
Best practices for using REPL effectively in development
You’ll also see real-world examples where REPL can help:
✅ Quickly testing a function without writing a full program
✅ Experimenting with JavaScript methods and syntax
✅ Accessing and testing Node.js core modules like fs, path, or os
✅ Debugging parts of your a
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