React Native — Beginner Step-by-Step Setup
A short, clear step-by-step guide to get a React Native (React Native CLI) development
environment running.
1) Quick overview (what you'll do)
- Install prerequisites (Node, Java JDK, Android Studio, Xcode for iOS).
- Create a new React Native project with `npx react-native init`.
- Run the app on Android emulator/device or iOS Simulator/device.
2) Prerequisites
- Node.js (LTS) — install from nodejs.org.
- Java JDK (OpenJDK 11+ recommended for Android builds).
- Android Studio (with Android SDK, SDK Command-line Tools, and an emulator).
- Xcode (macOS only) + CocoaPods for iOS.
- Optional: Yarn, Watchman.
3) Install core tools
- Install Node.js from nodejs.org.
- (macOS) Install Homebrew, then CocoaPods via `brew install cocoapods` or `sudo gem install
cocoapods`.
- Install Java JDK (e.g., OpenJDK 17).
4) Android Studio & SDK setup
- Install SDK + Command-line Tools in Android Studio.
- Create an emulator (AVD).
- Set environment variables (ANDROID_HOME, PATH).
5) Create new React Native project
npx react-native init MyApp
cd MyApp
For iOS: run `npx pod-install ios`.
6) Run the app
- Start Metro: `npx react-native start`
- Android: `npx react-native run-android`
- iOS (macOS): `npx react-native run-ios`
7) Helpful commands
- `npx react-native doctor`
- `adb devices`
- `npx react-native start --reset-cache`
8) Troubleshooting
- Run `pod install` if iOS build fails.
- Fix Gradle/SDK issues via Android Studio SDK Manager.
- Ensure emulator/device is running and `adb devices` lists it.
9) Next steps
- Edit `App.js` to test hot reload.
- Learn RN basics (components, props, state).
