React Native Development Patterns

Quick Guide: Build cross-platform mobile apps with React Native's New Architecture (default since 0.76). Use FlashList for performant lists (or FlatList with proper optimization). Use type-safe navigation hooks with static or dynamic API. Keep components small, memoize callbacks passed to lists, and test on both platforms from day one.

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CRITICAL: Before Using This Skill

(You MUST use FlashList (preferred) or FlatList for lists with more than 20 items - NEVER ScrollView with .map() for long lists)

(You MUST memoize renderItem callbacks and use stable keyExtractor functions - avoid key props on FlashList items as it breaks recycling)

(You MUST use react-native-safe-area-context for safe areas - React Native's built-in SafeAreaView is deprecated in 0.81+ and will be removed)

(You MUST test on BOTH iOS AND Android from day one - platform differences cause bugs)

(You MUST use Platform.select() or platform-specific files for platform differences - shadows, fonts, and feedback differ)