Phase: BuildingAction Day45 minutes

Day 20: Environment Variables

Environment variables store configuration and secrets outside your code. API keys, database passwords, anything sensitive. They're different on your computer vs. the live website.

Today's Tasks

  1. 1Create a `.env.local` file
  2. 2Add a variable (not a real secret yet, just practice)
  3. 3Use it in your application
  4. 4Understand why `.env.local` is in `.gitignore`

Prompt to Use

Teach me about environment variables in Next.js. Create a .env.local file with a test variable. Show me how to use it in my app. Explain why this file shouldn't go to GitHub and verify it's in .gitignore.

Expected Outcome

Understanding of environment variables and why they matter.

New Terms

.env.env.localEnvironment VariableNEXT_PUBLIC_.gitignore

Pro Tip

`NEXT_PUBLIC_` prefix makes a variable available in the browser. Without it, the variable only exists on the server. Never put secrets in `NEXT_PUBLIC_` variables.

Coming Tomorrow

We'll review and polish your local portfolio site.