Jquery - setting the selected value of a select control via its text description

jQuery versions and preferred methods

Different jQuery versions prefer different methods. For versions 1.6 and above, use .prop() for setting properties like selected. Older versions might need a different approach using the val() function:

// jQuery v1.6+: Fasten your seatbelts, we're diving in.
$('#selectElement').val($('#selectElement option').filter(function() {
    return $.trim($(this).text()) === 'Option Text';
}).val()).change();

// Below v1.6: Can still get things done, just the old-fashioned way
$('#selectElement option').each(function() {
    if ($.trim($(this).text()) == 'Option Text') {
        $(this).parent().val($(this).val());
        return false;
    }
});
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The above snippets handle whitespace with $.trim() and ensures change event is fired. As of jQuery 1.9, attr('selected', true) has been shown the exit door. Stick to .prop(), keep your scripts future-proof.

Fighting whitespace, aiming for precise text matching

Whitespaces, the sneaky little things can misleading. Using $.trim() ensures neither leading nor trailing spaces can ruin an exact match. Keep an eye out for whitespaces between words too:

$('#selectElement option').filter(function() {
    // Say "No" to sneaky whitespaces!
    return $.trim($(this).text()) === 'Option Text';
}).prop('selected', true).parent().change();


Here, $.trim() tackles formatting issues in the <option> text like a pro. Ending with a .change() method call ensures event handlers receive the memo of the change.

Event triggering for dynamic interactions

Once you've set the value, you want to raise a red flag, or as jQuery puts it, trigger the change event. This ensures any event handlers in the vicinity are notified:

// It's like announcing "Hey, there's a new sheriff in town!"
$('#selectElement').val('newValue').change();


This pattern works wonders to keep your user interface reactive and any bound event listeners on their toes.

Troubleshooting potential issues

Understandably, not every encounter will go smooth. Here are some pro-tips to trouble-free code:

Using :contains() selector for broader search

When the text might include additional characters, the :contains() selector comes to the rescue:

// For when the text got more characters than a Game of Thrones season.
$('#selectElement option:contains("Partial Text")').prop('selected', true);


But tread carefully, :contains() selector could end up matching more options than you'd like.

Dealing with identical twins

Options resembling each other might cause a mix-up. For similar named options, ensure distinct matching:

$('#selectElement option').filter(function() {
    // Sometimes, being specific is the way to go
    return $(this).text().match(/^Exact Text$/);
}).prop('selected', true);


Keep your jQuery version in check

Remember the jQuery version you're using. To mitigate version-specific behaviors:

// Gotta remember the version. It's not just jQuery, it's v1.6.
if (jQuery.fn.jquery >= "1.6") {
    // Use the .prop() method, it's the latest thing
} else {
    // Use the .attr() method or hop on the upgrade train!
}


Streamlining your dynamic value settings

Embrace the best practices that can withstand changes in both the jQuery version and coding style.

Ward off the deprecated

Keep your code current, use the latest Best Practices to ward off future compatibility issues.

Test the waters

Before going live, always test your code across different environments and devices for a reliable application.

Keep it clear and simple

Don't let your code turn into a puzzle for everyone else. Code that's concise, clear, and maintainable keeps errors at bay and adapts well to change.