How to design a Paginated API?

Updated Apr 28, 2026

Short answer

Using limit/offset or cursor-based approaches to return large datasets in chunks.

Deep explanation

Intermediate API design involves handling complexity and security. Using limit/offset or cursor-based approaches to return large datasets in chunks.

Real-world example

GitHub API using cursors for navigating large lists of commits.

Common mistakes

Not versioning the API from day one, leading to breaking changes.

Follow-up questions

Is PUT idempotent?
Is POST idempotent?

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