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Java Intro to Java Web Development with Spark Bells and Whistles Accessing Specific Items

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Slug

What is the purpose of using a slug in this situation? Which are the benefits?

1 Answer

Like Craig says, it helps create a more human-friendly URL:

  • It's easier for a human to remember
  • If you want to share the URL by sending it to someone, the URL will inform the person who sees it about the content of the page

For example if you send me a message like "Check this great recipe! http://myrecipes.com/recipes/3541" I have no idea what kind of recipe it is. If I read "Check this great recipe! http://myrecipes.com/recipes/chocolate-cake" then I know before I click the link that it's a chocolate cake.

Lots of sites use slugs for this reason, so it's good to know how to do it.