HTTP 205 Reset Content vs 303 See Other
HTTP 205 (Reset Content) is a 2xx Success response, while 303 (See Other) is a 3xx Redirection response. 205 indicates that the server fulfilled the request and the client should reset the document view (e.g., clear a form). In contrast, 303 means that the server is redirecting to a different resource using GET, typically after a POST operation (Post/Redirect/Get pattern).
Description
The server fulfilled the request and the client should reset the document view (e.g., clear a form).
When You See It
After form submissions where the server wants the client to reset the form for new input.
How to Fix
The client should clear the form or reset the view. Rarely used in practice.
Description
The server is redirecting to a different resource using GET, typically after a POST operation (Post/Redirect/Get pattern).
When You See It
After form submissions to prevent resubmission on browser refresh.
How to Fix
Follow the Location header with a GET request. This is intentional — part of the PRG pattern.
Key Differences
205 is a 2xx Success response, while 303 is a 3xx Redirection response.
HTTP 205: The server fulfilled the request and the client should reset the document view (e.g., clear a form).
HTTP 303: The server is redirecting to a different resource using GET, typically after a POST operation (Post/Redirect/Get pattern).
You encounter 205 when after form submissions where the server wants the client to reset the form for new input.
You encounter 303 when after form submissions to prevent resubmission on browser refresh.
When to Use Which
For 205 (Reset Content): The client should clear the form or reset the view. Rarely used in practice. For 303 (See Other): Follow the Location header with a GET request. This is intentional — part of the PRG pattern.