The error message “Uncaught Error: Invariant Violation: Element type is invalid: expected a string (for built-in components) or a class/function but got: object” typically occurs in React when we are trying to render a component but the element we are passing isn’t a valid React component.
Here are some common reasons for this error and how to fix them:
Check our import statements
Make sure we are importing the component correctly. For example, if we are using default exports, we should import it like this:
import MyComponent from './MyComponent';
And not like this:
import { MyComponent } from './MyComponent';
Check the component name
Ensure that we’ve correctly named our component when importing and rendering it. Typos can lead to React not recognizing the component.
Check the component definition
Make sure that the component we are trying to render is indeed a valid React component. Double-check the file where we define the component and ensure that it’s exporting correctly.
Check for circular dependencies
Circular dependencies can sometimes lead to this error. Make sure our component dependencies are set up correctly and there are no circular imports.
Check for default exports:
If we are using default exports, ensure that we are exporting the component correctly:
export default function MyComponent() {
// component implementation
}
Check for typos or incorrect paths: Ensure that the file path to the component is correct. A wrong file path will result in React not finding the component.
Check if you’re passing an object instead of a component
Sometimes, this error occurs when you mistakenly pass an object instead of a component to the render()
method. Make sure that the variable you’re passing is actually a React component.