Implementing Smooth Scrolling in React

Introduction

Smooth scrolling enhances user experience by providing fluid navigation between sections. This article explores implementing smooth scrolling using the Intersection Observer API.

Implementation

1. Creating the Hook

const useActiveSection = () => {
  const [activeSection, setActiveSection] = useState("");
  
  useEffect(() => {
    const observer = new IntersectionObserver(
      (entries) => {
        entries.forEach((entry) => {
          if (entry.isIntersecting) {
            setActiveSection(entry.target.id);
          }
        });
      },
      { threshold: 0.5 }
    );
    
    // Observe sections
    document.querySelectorAll("section").forEach((section) => {
      observer.observe(section);
    });
    
    return () => observer.disconnect();
  }, []);
  
  return activeSection;
};

Best Practices

1. Use appropriate thresholds
2. Implement debouncing
3. Handle edge cases

Conclusion

Proper smooth scrolling implementation significantly improves navigation experience in React applications.