HTTP Methods

HTTP methods define what type of operation a client wants to perform when making a request. The four primary methods are GET (retrieve data), POST (create a resource), PUT or PATCH (update a resource), and DELETE (remove a resource).

For read-only data APIs - those returning property listings, product prices, or hotel availability - GET is almost exclusively used. GET requests pass parameters in the URL query string and are safe to repeat without side effects.

Understanding HTTP methods matters when reading error messages. A 405 Method Not Allowed error means you are using the wrong HTTP method for that endpoint - for example, sending a POST to an endpoint that only accepts GET.