When would you choose `useReducer` instead of several `useState` calls?

Use a reducer for explicit React state transitions

Explains when a reducer clarifies related state transitions and when independent state remains simpler.

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I use separate useState values when they change independently and their updates are easy to understand. I reach for useReducer when one event changes several related fields, transitions need names, or the next state depends on the current state in several places. The component dispatches an event such as submitted, succeeded, or failed, and the reducer returns the next immutable state. That gathers transition rules in one place without making the state global.

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Reducers, events, state machines, atomic transitions, invariants, initialization, testing, and component complexity.

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Why this question matters
Reducers are valuable when complexity comes from related transitions, not merely because a component has several values. The decision is about making state rules explicit and keeping invalid combinations out.
I use separate useState values when they change independently and their updates are easy to understand. I reach for useReducer when one event changes several related fields, transitions need names, or the next state depends on the current state in several places. The component dispatches an event such as submitted, succeeded, or failed, and the reducer returns the next immutable state. That gathers transition rules in one place without making the state global.
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Using a reducer only because a component has more than two state values.
Performing network calls or logging side effects inside the reducer.
Naming every action after a setter instead of a domain event.
Resetting state from props without defining when that is valid.

When would you choose `useReducer` instead of several `useState` calls?

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