Single action controllers are suitable for handling a single HTTP request, especially when logic is complex but no full controller is required. It keeps the code concise by including only one __invoke method, which is commonly found in the Laravel or Ruby on Rails framework; usage scenarios include building endpoints for non-standard resource routing, API development and microservices; when created, it can be generated through command-line tools and written directly in __invoke; the key point is to keep it lightweight, focus on a single responsibility, and use it in combination with form requests or service classes to improve maintainability.
A single action controller is a type of controller in web development—especially common in frameworks like Laravel or Ruby on Rails—that is designed to handle just one specific HTTP request or action. Unlike traditional controllers that might include multiple methods (like index, show, create, update), a single action controller only has one method, usually the __invoke
method in PHP-based frameworks.
This pattern helps keep your codebase clean and focused when you don't need a whole controller with multiple actions, but still want to separate logic cleanly.
When Should You Use a Single Action Controller?
Use a single action controller when:
- You're building an endpoint that does one specific thing and doesn't fit into a standard resourceful route.
- The logic for handling a particular request is complex enough to justify its own class, but not large enough to warrant a full controller.
- You're making APIs or microservices where each endpoint tends to be small and focused.
For example, imagine a route like /subscribe-to-newsletter
. It's not tied to a model directly, and it doesn't follow typical CRUD patterns. A single action controller fits perfectly here.
How Do You Create One?
In Laravel (PHP), creating a single action controller is straightforward. You can generate it using Artisan:
php artisan make:controller SubscribeToNewsletterController --invokable
This creates a controller with only the __invoke
method. Then you can define the logic inside that method, like validating input, saving data, or dispatching jobs.
In other frameworks like Ruby on Rails, you'd typically set up a controller with only one action and route to it directly.
Key points:
- These controllers are often registered in routes like any other.
- They should be lightweight and focused.
- Don't overload them with unrelated logic—keep concerns separated.
Benefits and Best Practices
Benefits:
- Keeps your app more organized by avoiding bloated controllers.
- Makes routing more explicit and easier to understand.
- Encourages better separation of concerns.
Best practices:
- Name the controller clearly based on what it does.
- Keep the logic inside
__invoke
simple and testable. - Consider combining it with form requests or service classes if the logic gets heavy.
One thing to watch out for: don't fall into the trap of putting too many responsibilities into one controller just because it's convenient. Stick to one action, one purpose.
That's basically it. Not complicated, but definitely useful in the right context.
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