Tezos Connecting contracts to Frontend
Tags: tezos, frontend, taquitojs, javascript
Published: 2023-07-24 04:55:52

# Unlocking the Power of Smart Contracts on Tezos with Taquito.js

Interacting with smart contracts on blockchain networks such as Tezos presents a plethora of opportunities. However, for the average user, the process can seem daunting. While developers can interact with smart contracts and check entry points via platforms like Better Call Dev or TzKT, regular users may find this challenging. Most users are only familiar with front-end UI, making the technical aspects of smart contracts hard to comprehend.

## Introducing Taquito.js

Fortunately, a solution exists in the form of Taquito.js. This JavaScript library simplifies the process of reading data from the Tezos blockchain and interacting with smart contracts. It offers a user-friendly alternative to the traditionally complex Michelson expressions.

With Taquito.js, developers can effortlessly read smart contract storage, interact with contracts, and send transactions to the blockchain node. The library stands out for its intuitive interface and ease of use.

## Taquito.js in Action

The potential of Taquito.js is demonstrated in a practical setting. By creating a contract instance, calling smart contract methods, and sending transactions, developers can leverage Taquito.js to streamline their work and enhance the outcome.

## Building a User-Friendly Interface

The focus then shifts to the front-end development of a lottery smart contract, demonstrating how to establish a connection to a public testnet (Ghostnet) using React and TypeScript. The integration of a wallet using Temple Wallet further simplifies the process. A user-friendly interface with easy options to buy tickets and end the game enhances the user experience.

Later in the tutorial, an active account is fetched using Taquito's Beacon wallet functionality. This straightforward operation exemplifies the practicality and utility of Taquito.js.

## Enhancing Smart Contract Interaction

As the tutorial progresses, the capabilities of Taquito.js become even more apparent. The library can be utilized to interact with the lottery smart contract, allowing developers to create a contract instance, call the "buy ticket" entry point, and send a transaction to the Tezos blockchain.

Importantly, the tutorial also addresses the user experience aspect, demonstrating how loading state management can keep users informed during transaction processing. Alerts indicating successful transactions or failures further enhance this experience.

## Implementing and Improving the Lottery Contract

Moving beyond the theory, the tutorial demonstrates the practical application of a lottery contract. The processes of fetching contract storage using Taquito and the Tezos API, displaying remaining tickets, and managing ticket purchases are all covered. Confirmation pop-ups following ticket purchases improve the user experience and ensure clarity throughout the process.

The tutorial culminates with the game's conclusion, displaying the balance received by each winning ticket holder and signifying the successful implementation of the lottery contract.

Looking to the future, the presenter explores potential improvements, discussing the potential for implementing multiple ticket buying functions, recording previous winners, and the prospect of incorporating dynamic NFTs, burn functionality, and FA1.2 token integration.

## Moving Forward

In summary, Taquito.js is an innovative and user-friendly tool that simplifies interactions with smart contracts on the Tezos blockchain. Its far-reaching potential can enhance both user experiences and developer workflows, making it a highly recommended tool for anyone venturing into the world of smart contracts and blockchain technology.