What is the purpose of the HTTP PATCH method and how does it differ from other resource update methods?

The HTTP PATCH method is designed for partial updates of a resource. Unlike PUT, which usually replaces the entire resource, PATCH allows sending only the changes that need to be made.

Main differences between PATCH and other update methods:

• PATCH updates part of the resource without affecting other fields.
• PUT replaces the entire resource with a new representation.
• POST is usually used for creating resources, but can also be applied for partial updates, although this is not standard.

Example: if you have a user object with fields name, email, and age, and you only need to change the email, with PATCH you will send only this field, and the others will remain unchanged.