PUT or PATCH to update a resource?

`PUT` replaces the entire resource (fields missing from the body get cleared); `PATCH` only changes the fields sent. In practice, many APIs use `PATCH` even for full updates for client-side simplicity.

Should I version in the URL or in a header?

Both are used in practice. The URL (`/api/v1/...`) is more visible and easier to test manually; the `Accept` header keeps URLs stable over time. The choice matters less than staying consistent across the whole API.

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REST API verbs, status codes and best practices

HTTP verbs, route naming, status codes, pagination and versioning: designing a consistent REST API.

Premium Updated on September 11, 2026

HTTP verbs and their REST usage

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HTTP verbs and their REST usage

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