The Mysterious Case of “Your `getServerSideProps` function did not return an object”

If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve stumbled upon one of the most frustrating errors in Next.js: “Your `getServerSideProps` function did not return an object”. Don’t worry, you’re not alone! In this article, we’ll embark on a thrilling adventure to solve this mystery and uncover the secrets behind this enigmatic error message.

The Scene of the Crime: Understanding `getServerSideProps`

`getServerSideProps` is a function in Next.js that allows you to pre-render pages on the server-side. It’s a powerful tool for improving SEO, reducing latency, and enhancing user experience. But, when used incorrectly, it can lead to the error we’re about to tackle.

// A basic example of getServerSideProps
export const getServerSideProps = async () => {
  // Your server-side logic here
  return {
    props: {}, // You must return an object with a `props` property
  };
};

The Suspects: Common Causes of the Error

Before we dive into the solutions, let’s identify the usual culprits behind this error:

• getServerSideProps returns undefined
• getServerSideProps returns a promise that resolves to undefined
• getServerSideProps returns an object without the required props property
• getServerSideProps throws an error

Gathering Clues: Debugging `getServerSideProps`

To catch the offending code, we need to set up a debugging process. Follow these steps:

1. console.log your way through the getServerSideProps function to identify where the error occurs.
2. Use the Next.js built-in debugging feature by setting the NEXT_DEBUG environment variable to true.
3. Check the Node.js console for any error messages or warnings related to getServerSideProps.
4. Verify that your getServerSideProps function is being called correctly by adding a logging statement at the beginning of the function.

// Add this line at the beginning of your getServerSideProps function
console.log('getServerSideProps called');

export const getServerSideProps = async () => {
  // Your server-side logic here
  return {
    props: {}, // Don't forget to return an object with a `props` property
  };
};

The Investigation: Resolving the Error

Now that we’ve gathered enough evidence, it’s time to solve the mystery! Here are the solutions to the common causes:

Suspect 1: `getServerSideProps` returns undefined

In this case, ensure that your `getServerSideProps` function returns an object with a `props` property. If your function doesn’t return anything, add a default return statement:

export const getServerSideProps = async () => {
  // Your server-side logic here
  return {
    props: {}, // Return an object with a `props` property
  };
};

Suspect 2: `getServerSideProps` returns a promise that resolves to undefined

When working with promises, make sure to handle errors correctly. Use try-catch blocks to catch any errors and return a default object:

export const getServerSideProps = async () => {
  try {
    // Your server-side logic here
    return {
      props: {}, // Return an object with a `props` property
    };
  } catch (error) {
    console.error(error);
    return {
      props: {}, // Return a default object on error
    };
  }
};

Suspect 3: `getServerSideProps` returns an object without the required props property

Remember to include the `props` property in the returned object. Forgetting this property will trigger the error:

export const getServerSideProps = async () => {
  return {
    // Forgot the `props` property
    foo: 'bar',
  };
};

Instead, use the correct format:

export const getServerSideProps = async () => {
  return {
    props: {}, // Don't forget the `props` property
  };
};

Suspect 4: `getServerSideProps` throws an error

Finally, ensure that your `getServerSideProps` function doesn’t throw any errors. Catch and handle errors correctly using try-catch blocks:

export const getServerSideProps = async () => {
  try {
    // Your server-side logic here
    return {
      props: {}, // Return an object with a `props` property
    };
  } catch (error) {
    console.error(error);
    return {
      props: {}, // Return a default object on error
    };
  }
};

The Verdict: Solving the Mystery

By following the clues and applying the solutions, you should be able to resolve the “Your `getServerSideProps` function did not return an object” error. Remember to:

• Return an object with a `props` property from your `getServerSideProps` function.
• Catch and handle errors correctly using try-catch blocks.
• Debug your `getServerSideProps` function using console logging and Next.js built-in debugging features.

Cause	Solution
getServerSideProps returns undefined	Return an object with a props property
getServerSideProps returns a promise that resolves to undefined	Handle errors correctly using try-catch blocks
getServerSideProps returns an object without the required props property	Include the props property in the returned object
getServerSideProps throws an error	Catch and handle errors correctly using try-catch blocks

The Conclusion: Mastering `getServerSideProps`

With this comprehensive guide, you should now be able to tackle the “Your `getServerSideProps` function did not return an object” error with confidence. Remember to keep your `getServerSideProps` function well-maintained, and always return an object with a `props` property. Happy coding!

If you’re still struggling with this error or have further questions, please don’t hesitate to ask. The Next.js community is always ready to help.

Frequently Asked Questions

Stuck with the “Your `getServerSideProps` function did not return an object” error? You’re not alone! Here are some frequently asked questions to help you navigate this Next.js conundrum.