FrontendHaltJavaScript·Intermediate·Conceptual·1 min read
What is tree shaking?
Short interview answer
It is build-time removal of exports proven unused, enabled by the static shape of ES module imports and exports. Side effects, dynamic access patterns, CommonJS interop, and inaccurate package metadata can limit safe elimination.
Key takeaway
Explain the underlying mental model clearly, then support it with a concrete example and its trade-offs.