Learn how to set up a new Clojure project using tools.deps, including writing a `deps.edn` file and running the application with the Clojure CLI.
In this section, you’ll learn how to get started with Clojure’s tools.deps to create a new project. The process involves setting up a project directory, crafting a deps.edn file, and finally, running your application using the powerful Clojure CLI. This approach allows you to take advantage of dependency management and project configuration without the heavier weight of build tools like Leiningen.
To begin, you’ll create a directory that will house your new Clojure project. This is a straightforward process:
mkdir my-clojure-project
cd my-clojure-project
deps.edn FileThe deps.edn file is central to defining your project’s dependencies and customization. Open your favorite text editor and create a file named deps.edn in the root of your project directory with the following content:
{:deps {org.clojure/clojure {:mvn/version "1.10.3"}}}
This file specifies that your project depends on Clojure version 1.10.3. You can add additional dependencies in a similar manner, simply listing them under the :deps key.
With the setup done, you’re ready to run your application. Ensure you have the Clojure CLI tools installed. You can execute your Clojure code from the command line with:
clj -X:run
However, to define an entry point for the application, you can specify it in deps.edn under an alias:
{:deps {org.clojure/clojure {:mvn/version "1.10.3"}}
:aliases {:run {:main-opts ["-m" "my.clojure.project.core"]}}}
Ensure there’s a corresponding namespace and file src/my/clojure/project/core.clj where your entry point function resides.
Creating projects with tools.deps and the Clojure CLI offers a lightweight and flexible approach to managing your Clojure project’s dependencies and configurations. By following these steps, you establish a solid foundation to begin developing efficient and functional Clojure applications on the JVM.
By following this detailed guide, you’re now equipped to create efficient Clojure projects using tools.deps on the JVM, seamlessly integrating functional programming principles into your development workflow. Start your journey with Clojure and elevate your coding expertise today!