Files & Configuration
node_modules
What It Is
A folder containing all the packages your project depends on
Analogy
The pantry where all your ingredients are stored after you buy them
Try It Out
Dependency Tree
my-project/
├──react@18.2.0
├──loose-envify@1.4.0
└──scheduler@0.23.0
├──next@14.0.0
├──postcss@8.4.31
└──styled-jsx@5.1.1
└──tailwindcss@3.3.5
└──autoprefixer@10.4.16
Each package can have its own dependencies
Related Terms in Files & Configuration
Dotfile
Secret notes you keep in a drawer. They're there, but you have to know to look for them
.env
A sticky note with passwords and settings you keep in your desk drawer — never in a shared folder
.env.local
Your personal sticky note that never leaves your desk, even if you share the project with others
.gitignore
A "do not pack" list for your suitcase — these items stay home no matter what