The package.json file is a fundamental component in Node.js projects, serving as a manifest file that contains metadata about the project. This file is located in the root directory of any Node.js project and plays several critical roles in the project's management and configuration[1][3].
Key Functions and Features of package.json
Project Metadata: It includes basic information about the project such as the name, version, description, and author. This metadata is essential not only for human understanding but also for defining the project in the Node.js ecosystem[1][3].
Dependency Management: The package.json file lists all the dependencies your project needs to run. These dependencies are installed using npm (Node.js package manager), which reads this file to determine which packages to install. It can specify versions using semantic versioning rules, ensuring compatibility and preventing updates that could break your project[1][3].
Script Running: It can define script commands that can be executed at various stages of development, such as testing, building, or deploying. These scripts help in automating tasks and making the development process more efficient[1][3].
Publishing Information: Before a project can be published to the npm registry, package.json must include certain information like the entry point file of the project (typically defined under the "main" field), which is crucial for the project’s consumption and execution...
