What is an HTTP method?

An HTTP method is a part of an HTTP request that tells the server exactly what the client wants to do with a resource.

In simple terms: an HTTP method answers the question: "what action should be performed?"

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#Why HTTP methods are needed

The same URL can be used for different actions. An HTTP method lets the server understand the client's intent.

For example:

• get data
• send data
• change data
• delete data

Without methods, the server would not know what exactly is wanted from it.

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#The most basic HTTP methods

#GET, get data

Used to:

• get a page
• request data from an API

Example:

"Give me the list of users"

GET does not change data on the server.

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#POST, send data

Used to:

• submit a form
• create a new object
• send data to the server

Example:

"Create a new user with this data"

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#PUT, replace data

Used to:

• fully update a resource

Example:

"Replace the user's data entirely"

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#PATCH, partially change data

Used to:

• change only part of a resource

Example:

"Update only the user's email"

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#DELETE, delete data

Used to:

• delete a resource

Example:

"Delete the user"

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#Why HTTP methods matter

HTTP methods:

• make an API clear and predictable
• help separate the logic of actions
• are used in REST and web services
• matter for security and caching

For example:

• GET can be cached
• POST usually cannot

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#Real-life example

A URL is a store's address. An HTTP method is the action:

• GET → look at a product
• POST → place an order
• DELETE → cancel an order

The address is the same, the action is different.

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#Key points for an interview

• a method is not a URL
• a method is a verb, an action
• the server itself decides what to do with the method
• the wrong method → an error (for example, 405 Method Not Allowed)

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#Short answer for an interview

Remember this wording:

An HTTP method is a part of an HTTP request that defines the type of operation the client performs on a resource on the server, for example retrieving, creating, changing, or deleting data.