Add Prettier for Consistent Code Formatting

[RobAndrewHurst]

Add Prettier for Consistent Code Formatting

Our codebase currently lacks automated code formatting, which has led to inconsistencies in code style across different files and between team members. This creates unnecessary noise in code reviews and can make our code harder to maintain.

We should integrate Prettier as our automated code formatter with a standardized configuration to ensure consistent code style across our project.

Benefits

1. Improved Developer Experience

• Eliminates debates about code style in code reviews
• Automatic formatting on save (when configured with editor)
• Reduces cognitive load as developers don't need to manually format code
• Works seamlessly with most IDEs and editors

2. Better Code Review Process

• Pull requests focus on logic and functionality rather than formatting
• Reduces back-and-forth about style preferences
• Smaller, cleaner diffs as formatting is consistent

3. Increased Code Quality

• Consistent code style across the entire codebase
• More readable and maintainable code
• Reduces the likelihood of formatting-related bugs
• Makes it easier for new team members to contribute

4. Team Productivity

• No time spent manually formatting code
• Reduced context switching
• Faster onboarding for new team members
• Automated formatting in CI/CD pipeline

Implementation Plan

1. Set up Prettier with project-specific configuration
2. Update documentation with formatting guidelines

Additional Considerations

• We should run Prettier on the entire codebase in a single commit to avoid formatting-related conflicts
• Team members will need to install the Prettier extension for their preferred editors.
• We may need to adjust some ESLint rules to prevent conflicts with Prettier

Questions for Discussion

1. Are there any specific formatting rules we want to customize?
2. Should we enforce formatting in CI or just use it as a warning initially?
3. Do we want to format all file types or start with a subset?