Java is a highly popular programming language that forms the base of all types of web-based content, mobile applications, and enterprise software. The best way to learn this language is to join Java basic programs and practice your lessons besides participating in discussions and competitions related to it. Here we talk about some common Java programming mistakes that most beginners make. Regular practice and extra attention will help avoid these mistakes.
Forgetting that Java is Case-Sensitive
Several languages like HTML and SQL are case-insensitive and if a person has been using them he may tend to forget that this is not the case with Java. All users especiallybeginners need to remember that all of Java’s keywords are lowercase. Another thing to take care of is maintaining consistency with lowercase or uppercase when creating the names. The failure to do so will lead to Java considering different versions of the same name as different names.
Accessing Non-Static Members from Static Methods
Beginners generally do not understand the difference between static and non-static in Java and make mistakes in accessing non-static members. To avoid this mistake, Java learners need to remember that:
- Instance variables and methods must be accessed via object reference and cannot be accessed from the static context.
- Static variables and methods can, however, be accessed from both static and non-static contexts.
Missing a Break in a Switch Case Construct
When you learn Java programming you are taught that missing a break in a switch-case construct can cause the code to run improperly. While it will not result in a compile error, it does not allow the code to run properly and is also often not detected until the program is run. Why this mistake needs to be avoided is because Java’s fall-through feature allows code execution even if there is no break in the current case.
Not declaring Identifiers Before Using Them
Advanced Java users know that you have to declare all identifiers before using them. But many beginners forget this step and so get a “cannot find symbol” error message. This message comes when you forget to declare the identifier or there is a difference in the spelling of the identifier when declared and when used. Another reason for this kind of error message is that the variable is not used in the same scope as it was declared.
Using Less Restrictive Access Modifiers
Beginners often use access modifiers without giving due consideration to their visibility. The Java language providers users 4 access modifiers for protecting members of a class. These are public, protected, default, and private with the first one being the least restrictive and the last one the most restrictive. What beginners generally do is use the public and default access modifiers without realising that this will make the code less secured.
To avoid these and many other common mistakes, Java programmers must ensure that they have understood the basics clearly and practice a lot. Another thing to remember before joining a programming language course is to not go by the Python course fees but check the contents and the feedback provided by the earlier students. Learn Java programming or any other language from a reputed institute and avoid common mistakes made by beginners.