GraphQL is a query language developed by Facebook in 2012, designed to offer a more flexible and efficient data-fetching method compared to traditional REST APIs, allowing clients to request precisely the desired data from a server. Unlike REST, GraphQL features a strongly-typed schema that defines how data can be queried, utilizing types, fields, and directives. It supports three main operations: queries for fetching data, mutations for modifying data, and subscriptions for real-time updates. Integrating GraphQL with frontend frameworks like React, Vue.js, and Angular is facilitated by various client libraries such as Apollo Client and Vue Apollo, which offer features like caching and error handling. Best practices for using GraphQL include designing modular schemas, leveraging caching, and effectively managing errors. Resources for learning GraphQL include official documentation, books, and online communities, all of which can help developers maximize its potential in building scalable applications.