How to remove "disabled" attribute using jQuery?

Properties vs. attributes: The showdown

Properties are dynamic values tweaked during user interaction with an element. Meanwhile, attributes are static and stay in the HTML markup once rendered. As jQuery matured, .prop() got the spotlight for boolean values as it maintains the DOM state more reliably than .attr().

.prop(): The universal jQuery passport

Post jQuery 1.6, dealing with boolean attributes like disabled using .removeAttr() is considered outdated. Originally, .removeAttr() wasn't just kicking out the attribute, but also setting the associated property to false, leading to unexpected plot twists in your code.

Conquering .prop(): Your toolbox

No magic, just some practical tricks to wield .prop() like a pro:

• Ensure jQuery is up and running before calling .prop().
• Confirm there's no other "sneaky" script resetting the disabled state.
• Use your browser developer tools to investigate potential bugs.
• Experiment with your jQuery code in live environments like JSFiddle or CodePen.
• Target practice! Precision in choosing ID or class selectors pays off.
• Debug using console.log() or alert() statements to check the state switch.
• Recalling the disabled state is as simple as .prop("disabled", true).

Defending against the common foes

In the journey to vanquish the disabled state, make sure to:

• Check for typing gremlins in your jQuery functions!
• Confirm there are no traitor JavaScript codes negating your actions.
• Play safe and call .preventDefault() if events tend to get out of hand.

The art of toggling: conditional approach

Toggling the disabled state often calls for a conditional play, especially in scenarios where button states depend on other factors:

$('#submitBtn').prop('disabled', $('#agreeTerms').is(':not(:checked)'));
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Enabling the button only when terms are agreed upon equals better user interaction - a smooth move!

To better inspect the consequences of toggling, use developer tools or console.log() calls and stay prepared for any twists in the plot.

Wrestling dynamic elements and event handling

Dealing with dynamically spawned elements could be tricky. You might need .on() to attach event handlers to slay the chaos:

$(document).on('click', '#dynamicButton', function() {
    // Bet you didn't see that coming 😉
    $(this).prop('disabled', false);
});
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This trick guarantees that every element - even those sneaking into the DOM post page load - respects your disabled decree!