🧩 JavaScript Prototypes & Inheritance — How JS Really Shares Behavior

🔍 What Are Prototypes?

In JavaScript, everything is an object (well, almost 😉), and all objects have a hidden internal link to another object called a prototype.

This is how inheritance works in JS — not through classes (like in Java), but through a prototype chain.

📦 Example:

🧠 The Prototype Chain

Here's how lookup works:

🔨 Constructor Functions & Prototypes

• speak() is not defined on dog, but on its prototype.

• All instances share one prototype → memory efficient

🔁 Modern Class Syntax (Behind the Scenes = Prototypes)

⚠️ Important Notes

• You can add methods to prototypes even after creating objects.

• Avoid modifying Object.prototype — it affects all objects and may cause bugs.

• Arrays, Functions, etc. also have their own prototypes.

📚 Summary Table

✅ Conclusion

Understanding prototypes is key to becoming a serious JavaScript developer. It gives you control over inheritance, memory optimization, and how objects truly behave in JS.

While modern class syntax may seem easier, mastering the prototype model helps you debug, optimize, and extend your code like a pro.

✍️ Written By

Chaitanya Chopde
📫 chaitanyachopde14@gmail.com

---

🌟 Inspired By

• Devsync

• JavaScript.info – Prototypal Inheritance

• DevSync’s Advanced JavaScript Bootcamp