In software, what’s the difference between a Framework, a Library, an Environment etc?

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I understand what a language is, stuff like Python, Java, Javascript, Swift etc. And I understand what an IDE is, it’s basically an advanced text editor tailored to helping you with writing code.

But I’m lost after that. I’ve heard that react is a framework? Is that because it’s kind of an add-on to JavaScript? If so, how is that different to a package or a Library? Or is a framework a type of library? Where do things like Spring, or Gradle or Flutter fit into this as well? Until recently, I thought Flutter was a language, but now I’m learning that the language might be Dart?

I’ve finished a full degree in Computer Science, and have been in Software Development for over a year now, but this has become no less clear to me.

In: Technology

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Anonymous 0 Comments

Library: You’re a carpenter, and the library is your toolbox. You’re doing ALL of the work yourself, but occasionally you need the help of a hammer or screwdriver from your toolbox.

Framework: You’ve hired a carpenter. He’s doing ALL of the work himself. Occasionally he asks your opinion about what size windows you want, etc… but otherwise he’s doing all the work and you’re just waiting around to answer his questions only when he asks.

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