REST API

The most common style of API design. REST APIs use standard HTTP methods (GET, POST, PUT, DELETE) to request and send data, usually formatted as JSON.

When developers say they're "calling an API," they almost always mean a REST API. Understanding the basics helps you read documentation, debug integrations, and communicate with technical co-founders.

A founder's app sends a POST request to the Shopify REST API to create a new discount code, no manual dashboard work needed.