`pop()` Method in JavaScript: Remove the Last Element from an Array

In JavaScript, the pop() method is a simple and effective way to remove the last element from an array. When working with lists of items, you may need to update or remove specific values, and pop() is specifically designed to take out the last item in an array without affecting the rest of the elements.

Let’s explore how to use the pop() method with an example.

What Does pop() Do?

The pop() method in JavaScript is used to:

1. 1. Remove the last element of an array.
2. 2. Return the value that was removed.

This method is a part of JavaScript’s built-in array methods, making it a handy tool for developers who need to alter or update lists.

Example: Using pop() to Remove the Last Item

Imagine we have an array containing a list of fruits:

var fruits = ['apple', 'banana', 'orange'];

If we want to remove the last item, which is 'orange', we can use the pop() method. Here’s how:

fruits.pop();
console.log(fruits); // Output: ['apple', 'banana']

Explanation

1. Step 1: Declare an array named fruits with the values ['apple', 'banana', 'orange'].
2. Step 2: Use fruits.pop() to remove the last item, 'orange'.
3. Step 3: Log the array to the console to see the updated values: ['apple', 'banana'].

When to Use pop()?

The pop() method is ideal when:

1. You need to remove the last item from an array.
2. You want to update the array without creating a new one.

In summary, the pop() method is a quick and efficient way to handle array updates, especially when managing lists in JavaScript applications.