GraphQL Basics

Before we delve deeper into Originate's GraphQL API, let's take a moment to familiarize ourselves with some fundamental concepts of GraphQL. This section will provide you with a foundational understanding of GraphQL's structure, syntax, and terminology, enabling you to navigate the API documentation with confidence.

### GraphQL Overview

GraphQL is a query language for APIs that allows you to request and manipulate data using a more flexible and efficient approach compared to traditional REST APIs. It empowers you to define the structure of the data you need and receive exactly that, eliminating the problem of over-fetching or under-fetching data.

### Benefits of Using GraphQL API

Efficiency: GraphQL minimizes over-fetching and under-fetching of data, ensuring that you only receive the information you need, which enhances performance and reduces unnecessary network traffic.

Flexibility: The GraphQL schema provides a clear representation of the available data and operations, allowing you to customize requests according to your requirements.

Real-time Updates: GraphQL subscriptions enable real-time updates, so you can receive instant notifications about changes to relevant data.

Versioning: Our GraphQL API supports versioning, enabling smooth transitions between different API versions as your applications evolve.

### Key Concepts:

**Schema:** A GraphQL schema defines the data types available in your API and the relationships between them. It serves as a contract between the client and the server, specifying the operations that can be performed.The schema also specifies exactly which queries and mutations are available for clients to execute.
**Queries:** Queries are used to request data from the API. A query defines the fields you want to retrieve and their structure. Think of a query as a way of asking questions about the data.
**Mutations:** Mutations enable you to modify data on the server. They encompass actions like creating, updating, or deleting records. Mutations ensure that changes to the data follow a controlled and predictable process.
**Fields and Types:** Fields are the individual pieces of data that can be requested in a query. Types define the structure of data, specifying what fields can be requested and their data types.
**Arguments:** Queries and mutations can accept arguments to customize the returned data or the operation. Arguments enable you to filter, sort, or modify the data being queried or mutated.

### GraphQL Syntax:

GraphQL queries, mutations, and subscriptions are written using a concise and structured syntax. Here's a brief overview:

#### Queries:

Request data by specifying the fields you want to retrieve.

GraphQl

query {  
  user(id: "123") {  
    name  
    email  
  }  
}

#### Mutations:

Modify data by defining the operation and providing input parameters.

GraphQL

mutation {  
  createUser(input: { name: "Alice", email: "alice@example.com" }) {  
    id  
    name  
  }  
}

By understanding these basics, you're better equipped to navigate and comprehend Originate's GraphQL API documentation. As we proceed, you'll notice that the API documentation leverages these concepts to provide a structured and efficient way to interact with Originate's loan management platform.

Now that we've covered the essentials, let's continue our journey into Originate's GraphQL API and explore how you can harness its power to streamline loan management operations.

Our "Getting Started" section will guide you through your first steps in using Originate's GraphQL API. You'll learn how to access the API, authenticate, and structure your GraphQL requests. This foundation will set you up for success as you begin integrating with our platform.