KapreSoft
Thank you for unblocking ads; your support allows us to continue delivering free, high-quality content that truly matters to you.

Java • Beginners Guide To Reflection

 
 

Overview

Java Reflection is a pivotal feature in Java programming, offering dynamic class manipulation. This guide introduces Java Reflection to beginners, illustrating its significance for Java developers. Reflection allows for runtime interactions with classes, enabling tasks like accessing private fields and methods, and creating objects dynamically. This not only boosts flexibility but also aids in tasks like serialization and API development.

Embed from Getty Images

While powerful, Reflection must be used wisely, demanding a balance between its advantages and the responsibility it entails. This guide aims to equip readers with a practical understanding of Java Reflection, enhancing their development skills in Java.

Understanding and Utilizing Java Reflection

Java Reflection is a powerful feature in Java programming that allows for dynamic class analysis and manipulation at runtime. This advanced capability provides significant flexibility, enabling Java developers to interact with and modify the internal workings of classes, constructors, fields, and methods, often beyond the reach of standard programming practices.

Key aspects of Java Reflection include:

While Java Reflection opens up extensive possibilities, it must be used judiciously due to its impact on performance and security. This understanding of Java Reflection, combining its conceptual framework with practical mechanics, empowers developers to use this feature effectively in their Java applications.

Real-World Examples and Case Studies

Java Reflection is a robust tool in the hands of adept developers. Here, we explore real-world examples and case studies that demonstrate the effective use of Java Reflection.

// TODO: Explain what setAccessible(..) means

Case Studies Demonstrating Effective Use of Java Reflection

1. Dynamic Configuration Loading

A common use of Java Reflection is in loading configurations dynamically. Consider a scenario where you have an application settings class, and you want to populate its fields from a properties file.

public class AppSettings {
    private String appName;
    private int maxUsers;

    // Getters and Setters
}

Properties props = new Properties();
props.load(new FileInputStream("config.properties"));

AppSettings settings = new AppSettings();
for (String key : props.stringPropertyNames()) {
    Field field = AppSettings.class.getDeclaredField(key);
    field.setAccessible(true);
    field.set(settings, props.getProperty(key));
}
2. Creating Plug-and-Play Modules

In a modular application, you might want to load modules at runtime without hardcoding their names. Java Reflection allows for this kind of flexibility.

public interface Module {
    void execute();
}

String moduleName = "com.example.MyModule"; // This can be read from a config file
Class<?> clazz = Class.forName(moduleName);
Module module = (Module) clazz.newInstance();
module.execute();

How Top Java Developers Utilize Reflection in Their Projects

1. Debugging and Testing Tools

Debugging tools often use Reflection to access private members of classes for thorough inspection. For example, a testing framework might use Reflection to invoke private methods:

public class TestRunner {
    public void runTest(String className, String methodName) throws Exception {
        Class<?> clazz = Class.forName(className);
        Object instance = clazz.newInstance();
        Method method = clazz.getDeclaredMethod(methodName);
        method.setAccessible(true);
        method.invoke(instance);
    }
}

// Usage
new TestRunner().runTest("com.example.MyTestClass", "testMethod");
2. Object-Relational Mapping (ORM) Libraries

ORM libraries like Hibernate use Reflection to map database tables to Java objects, allowing for dynamic query generation and data manipulation without the need for boilerplate code.

@Entity
@Table(name = "users")
public class User {
    @Id
    private long id;
    private String name;
    // Getters and Setters
}

// Hibernate internally uses Reflection to understand the annotations and map the User class to the 'users' table.
Session session = sessionFactory.openSession();
User user = session.get(User.class, userId);

These examples showcase the practicality and versatility of Java Reflection, illustrating its potential to make Java applications more dynamic, configurable, and modular. The use of Reflection in these scenarios underscores its value in sophisticated Java development.

Practical Applications of Java Reflection

Java Reflection is a versatile tool in Java programming, providing dynamic capabilities that enhance various aspects of application development.

1. Implementing Dynamic Configuration

Java Reflection is instrumental in dynamic configuration scenarios. It allows for runtime modification of class properties, enabling applications to adapt to changing environments or settings without recompilation. For instance, settings from a configuration file can be dynamically mapped to object fields, simplifying configuration management.

Field field = configClass.getDeclaredField(propertyName);
field.setAccessible(true);
field.set(configObject, propertyValue);
2. Use in Debugging and Testing

Reflection is a boon for testing frameworks, especially when dealing with private methods or fields. It permits access to internal components of a class, thereby enabling comprehensive testing and debugging. This is particularly useful in unit testing, where private methods need to be accessed without altering the visibility modifiers in the source code.

Method method = targetClass.getDeclaredMethod("privateMethod");
method.setAccessible(true);
method.invoke(targetInstance);
3. Enhancing Flexibility in Application Development

Java Reflection provides a level of flexibility unmatched by traditional methods. It is crucial in developing applications that require a high degree of modularity, such as plugin-based architectures. Developers can load and instantiate classes dynamically, which is vital for applications that must adapt to new functionalities introduced at runtime.

Class<?> pluginClass = Class.forName("com.example.plugins.NewPlugin");
Object plugin = pluginClass.newInstance();

These practical applications demonstrate how Java Reflection can be a powerful tool, making Java applications more adaptable, testable, and modular. While it should be used judiciously due to its potential impact on performance and security, its benefits in specific scenarios are undeniable.

Working with Java Reflection Safely

Utilizing Java Reflection requires careful consideration of both security and performance. Adhering to best practices ensures safe and efficient use of this powerful feature.

1. Handling IllegalAccessException

When accessing private fields or methods using Reflection, it’s common to encounter IllegalAccessException. To handle this, developers must set accessibility flags judiciously. However, it’s crucial to reset these flags back to their original state to maintain the integrity and encapsulation of the code.

Field field = someClass.getDeclaredField("privateField");
boolean isAccessible = field.isAccessible();
field.setAccessible(true);
// Perform operations
field.setAccessible(isAccessible); // Restore original accessibility
2. Best Practices for Security and Performance

Reflection, if misused, can lead to significant security vulnerabilities and performance issues. To mitigate these risks, developers should:

By following these guidelines, developers can leverage the benefits of Java Reflection while minimizing potential security risks and performance overheads. This careful approach ensures that Reflection is used as a powerful aid in Java development, without compromising the application’s integrity.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

While Java Reflection is a potent tool, it comes with its own set of challenges. Understanding these common pitfalls and their solutions can help in harnessing its power effectively and safely.

1. Performance Overheads

Reflection can be significantly slower than direct method calls, leading to performance issues, especially in critical sections of code. This is primarily due to additional processing like access checks and method resolution at runtime.

Method method = MyClass.class.getMethod("myMethod");
// Reuse 'method' for subsequent calls
2. Security Risks Associated with Java Reflection

Reflection can inadvertently expose internal implementation details, increasing the risk of security vulnerabilities. It can also allow for the invocation of methods that should not be accessible, leading to potential breaches.

if (isSafeToAccess(field)) {
   field.setAccessible(true);
   // Perform operations
   field.setAccessible(false);
}

By being aware of these pitfalls and adhering to best practices, developers can effectively mitigate the risks associated with Java Reflection, ensuring both the security and performance of their applications.

In Conclusion

Java Reflection is a powerful feature that brings a high degree of flexibility and dynamism to Java programming. By allowing runtime access to classes, methods, and fields, it opens up possibilities for advanced coding techniques, dynamic configurations, and sophisticated development strategies. However, it’s crucial to use Reflection with a clear understanding of its implications on performance and security. As you dive deeper into Java Reflection, remember to balance its powerful capabilities with responsible coding practices. For those looking to enhance their skills, a wealth of resources, from official documentation to community forums, are available to guide and refine your journey in mastering this unique aspect of Java.


Java • Mastering New Stream Collector Methods
Stream processing in Java has revolutionized how we handle data, offering a functional approach to manipulate collections. With the release of new versions, Java continues to enhance this capability, introducing more intuitive and concise methods to collect and transform data streams.
Java • Dynamic Proxy vs CGLIB
The comparison between Java Dynamic Proxy and CGLIB represents a critical discussion in the realm of Java programming. In this article, we explore the distinct features, advantages, and use cases of Java Dynamic Proxy and CGLIB, offering insights for developers to make informed choices in their projects. Embed from Getty Images Java Dynamic Proxy, a part of the Java Reflection API, and CGLIB, a powerful, high-performance code generation library, each bring unique capabilities to the table.
Intro To Java Dynamic Proxies
Java dynamic proxies represent a powerful and often underutilized feature in the Java programming language. At its core, a Java dynamic proxy is a mechanism that allows developers to create a proxy instance for interfaces at runtime. This is achieved through Java’s built-in reflection capabilities. Dynamic proxies are primarily used for intercepting method calls, enabling developers to add additional processing around the actual method invocation.
Java • Intro To CGLIB Proxies
In this introductory article, we delve into the world of CGLIB Proxies, a powerful tool for enhancing the functionality of Java applications. We explore how CGLIB, as a bytecode generation library, offers dynamic proxy capabilities, essential for developers looking to create robust and flexible software.
Mastering Java Parallel Streams: Enhancing Performance in Modern Applications
Java’s Evolution to Parallel Streams: Java, an ever-evolving and versatile programming language, has made significant strides in adapting to the dynamic landscape of modern application development. A landmark in this journey was the introduction of parallel streams with Java 8, a feature that fundamentally transformed how developers optimize performance and enhance efficiency in their applications.
Java • Guide to Stream Concatenation
Java, a versatile and widely-used programming language, offers robust features for data handling, one of which is stream concatenation in its API. Stream concatenation allows developers to combine multiple data streams efficiently, enhancing data processing capabilities in Java applications. This article delves into the nuances of stream concatenation, providing insights and best practices for Java developers looking to optimize data handling in their applications.
Java • ThreadLocal Alternatives
In this article, we delve into the realm of Java concurrency, focusing on ThreadLocal and its alternatives. ThreadLocal is a fundamental tool in Java for managing thread-scoped data, but it’s not without its drawbacks. We’ll explore the challenges associated with ThreadLocal, shedding light on why developers often seek alternatives. The article will also introduce ScopedValue, a less familiar but significant option, and compare it with ThreadLocal.
Java • Intro to InheritableThreadLocal
In the realm of Java programming, InheritableThreadLocal stands out as a pivotal yet frequently overlooked component, especially in the domain of sophisticated multithreading. This distinctive feature in Java’s concurrency toolkit allows data to be passed seamlessly from a parent thread to its child threads, ensuring a level of continuity and state management that is crucial in complex applications.
Java • Try With Resources Practical Example
Java’s introduction of the try-with-resources statement revolutionized resource management, simplifying code and enhancing reliability. This feature, integral to Java’s exception handling mechanism, automatically manages resources like files and sockets, ensuring they are closed properly after operations, thus preventing resource leaks. Our discussion will delve into a practical example to understand how try-with-resources works and its benefits over traditional resource management techniques.
Java • ThreadLocal vs Thread
Java, as a versatile and powerful programming language, offers various mechanisms to handle multithreading and concurrency. Two such concepts, Thread and ThreadLocal, are pivotal in Java’s approach to multi-threaded programming. Understanding the distinction between these two, as well as their respective advantages and limitations, is crucial for any Java developer aiming to write efficient and robust multi-threaded applications.
Java • ThreadLocal Usecase In Servlet Filters
ThreadLocal in Java serves as a powerful mechanism for ensuring thread safety and managing data that is specific to individual threads, especially in multi-threaded environments like web servers. This article delves into the application of ThreadLocal in the context of Servlet Filters, an integral part of Java web applications. We explore how ThreadLocal can be strategically used to enhance performance, maintain clean code, and ensure thread safety in Servlet Filters, making your Java web applications more robust and efficient.
Java • Understanding the Dangers of ThreadLocal
In this article, we delve into the intricate world of Java programming, focusing on a specialized feature: ThreadLocal. Known for its ability to store data specific to a particular thread, ThreadLocal plays a crucial role in Java’s multi-threading capabilities. However, it’s not without its pitfalls. This exploration aims to unravel the complexities and potential dangers associated with ThreadLocal, providing insights for both seasoned and budding Java developers.
Java • ThreadLocal Best Practices
Java’s ThreadLocal is a powerful yet intricate component in concurrent programming, offering unique challenges and opportunities for developers. This article delves into the best practices for using ThreadLocal in Java, ensuring optimal performance and maintainability. By understanding its proper usage, developers can harness the full potential of ThreadLocal to manage data that is thread-specific, thereby enhancing application efficiency and robustness in multi-threaded environments.
Java • Logback Mapped Diagnostic Context (MDC) in Action
Java’s Logback framework offers a robust and flexible logging system, pivotal for any software development project. Among its features, the Mapped Diagnostic Context (MDC) stands out for its utility in providing contextual information in log messages.
Java • Logback Propagating MDC To Child Thread
Java’s Logback framework stands as a robust logging tool in Java applications, known for its enhanced flexibility and configurability. A pivotal feature of Logback is the Mapped Diagnostic Context (MDC), instrumental in enriching log messages with context-specific information. However, developers often encounter the challenge of propagating MDC data to child threads, a key step in maintaining contextual continuity in multi-threaded environments.
Java • Logback MDC In Thread Pools
Java Logback, a versatile logging framework, is essential for developers seeking efficient debugging and monitoring solutions. This article dives into the nuances of managing the Mapped Diagnostic Context (MDC) within a thread pool environment, a scenario common in Java applications. We’ll explore how Logback’s sophisticated features can be leveraged to handle MDC data safely and efficiently, ensuring thread safety and data integrity.
Spring • Intro To Aspect-Oriented Programming
Aspect-Oriented Programming (AOP) is an innovative programming paradigm that addresses concerns that cut across multiple classes in application development, such as logging, security, or transaction management. Spring AOP, a key component of the widely-used Spring Framework, provides an elegant solution to handle these cross-cutting concerns efficiently and in a modular way.
Java • Understanding Role Of Classloader
In this article, we delve into the intricacies of Java’s Classloader, a fundamental component of the Java Runtime Environment (JRE) that plays a crucial role in how Java applications run. We’ll explore the concept of Classloader, its functionality, and its significance in Java programming. By demystifying this complex element, the article aims to provide readers with a clear understanding of how Java classes are loaded and managed, enhancing their grasp of Java’s operational mechanisms.
What Is a Java Bytecode
Java bytecode is a crucial element in the world of Java programming, serving as the intermediate representation of Java code that is executed by the Java Virtual Machine (JVM). This article aims to demystify Java bytecode, breaking down its structure, purpose, and functionality.
Java • How To Get Package Name
Java, a robust and widely-used programming language, offers various ways to interact with its core components, such as packages and classes. Understanding how to retrieve package names in Java is crucial for developers, especially when dealing with large, complex projects.
Java • Pitfalls of Returning Null
In the realm of Java programming, the use of null has been a topic of extensive discussion and analysis. This article delves into the nuances of returning null in Java, exploring its implications, best practices, and viable alternatives. Initially, we will examine the concept of null in Java, its usage, and why it often becomes a source of debate among developers.
Java Streams • filter() & map() Beyond Basics
Delving into the advanced aspects of Java Streams, this article ventures beyond the elementary use of filter() and map() functions. Aimed at developers who have a grasp on the basics, this piece aims to elevate your understanding to a more sophisticated level.
Java Optional • Common Mistakes and Misconceptions of map() & flatMap()
Java’s Optional class, introduced in Java 8, is a pivotal tool for handling nulls effectively in Java applications. However, its map() and flatMap() methods often become sources of confusion and mistakes for many developers. This article dives into the intricacies of these methods, uncovering common misconceptions and errors.
Java Optional • map() vs flatMap()
In this article, we delve into the intricate world of Java’s Optional class, focusing on two pivotal methods: map() and flatMap(). We’ll explore how these functions enhance code readability and error handling in Java, offering a nuanced understanding of their usage and benefits. The comparison between map() and flatMap() will illuminate their roles in functional programming, elucidating when and why to use each method effectively.
Java Stream • findFirst() and findAny() In Action
In the realm of Java programming, stream operations offer powerful tools for processing sequences of elements. Among these, the findFirst() and findAny() methods are pivotal in retrieving elements from a stream. This article delves into the nuances of these methods, explicating their functionalities, differences, and appropriate use cases. Understanding these methods is crucial for Java developers looking to harness the full potential of stream processing.
Java • int vs long
In Java programming, understanding data types is crucial for efficient and error-free coding. Two fundamental data types often encountered are int and long. This article delves into their differences, use cases, and how they impact Java applications. By comprehending the nuances between these types, developers can make informed decisions, optimizing their code for performance and precision.
Java • AtomicReference Expert Guide
AtomicReference in Java is an intriguing feature that enhances the thread-safety of your applications. This guide dives into the intricacies of AtomicReference, explaining its functionality, benefits, and practical usage in Java development. We’ll explore its comparison with similar atomic classes and provide insights on when and how to effectively implement it in your projects.
Java • Custom Annotations In Action
In the dynamic landscape of Java programming, custom annotations have become a pivotal tool, revolutionizing code development and maintenance. As specialized metadata, custom annotations in Java empower developers to infuse additional information into their code, enhancing readability, maintainability, and functionality. They simplify complex tasks like serialization and data validation, and improve communication in collaborative coding environments.
Functional Programming with Java
Functional Programming (FP) in Java marks a significant shift towards a more efficient and clean coding paradigm, integrating core principles like immutability, pure functions, and higher-order functions into its traditional object-oriented framework. This article delves into the pivotal role of lambda expressions and the Stream API in enhancing code readability and performance.
Java vs. C#
In the dynamic and ever-evolving world of software development, Java and C# stand as two titans, each with its own unique strengths, philosophies, and ecosystems. This article delves into an in-depth comparison of Java and C#, exploring their historical context, language features, performance metrics, cross-platform capabilities, and much more.
Java • Mockito vs EasyMock
Java, a widely-used programming language, has evolved significantly over the years, especially in the realm of testing. In this digital era, where software development is fast-paced and highly iterative, the importance of efficient and reliable testing frameworks cannot be overstated. Among the various tools and libraries available for Java developers, Mockito and EasyMock stand out as popular choices for unit testing.
Java • Single Responsibility Principle
The Single Responsibility Principle (SRP), a fundamental concept within the SOLID principles, is crucial in Java programming. It dictates that each class should have only one reason to change, focusing on a single functionality or concern. This approach is particularly effective in Java, known for its robust object-oriented features, where SRP enhances maintainability, readability, and scalability of applications.
Java • Are Static Classes Things Of The Past?
Static classes have been a staple in the programming world for decades. Traditionally, a static class is one where all members and functions are static, meaning they belong to the class itself rather than any specific instance of the class. This makes static classes an efficient tool for grouping related functions and data that do not require object instantiation to be accessed.
Java • Multiple Inheritance Using Interface
Amongst the many facets of object-oriented programming, the concept of inheritance is fundamental. Multiple inheritance, a feature where a class can inherit from more than one superclass, can be particularly powerful but also complex. Java, however, does not support multiple inheritance directly in the way languages like C++ do. Instead, it offers a robust alternative through interfaces.
Java • Interfaces Are Replacing Abstract Classes
The Java programming language, renowned for its robust structure and versatile capabilities, has witnessed a notable evolution in its fundamental components over the years. Among these, the role and functionality of interfaces and abstract classes have undergone significant changes, particularly with the introduction of new features in Java 8.
Java • Decoupling Arbitrary Objects Through Composition
In the dynamic landscape of software development, the concept of object decoupling plays a pivotal role in crafting efficient, maintainable, and scalable applications. At its core, object decoupling refers to the design approach where components of a program are separated in such a manner that they are independent, yet functionally complete. This separation ensures that changes in one part of the system minimally impact other parts, facilitating easier updates, debugging, and enhancement.
Java Primitives & Primitive Wrappers
Java, a robust and widely-used programming language, stands out for its efficient handling of data types. Central to its functionality are the Java primitives and their corresponding wrapper classes. This article delves into the essence of Java primitives, their types, and the distinction between primitive and non-primitive data types, including examples to illustrate these concepts.
Java • Primitive int vs Integer Best Practices
In Java, one of the foundational decisions developers must make pertains to choosing between primitive types and their corresponding wrapper classes, such as int and Integer. Both have their place in Java applications, and understanding their differences is paramount for writing efficient and effective code.
Java • Harnessing Static and Default Methods in Interfaces
The arrival of static and default methods in Java 8 marked a significant shift in interface capabilities, expanding their functionality and versatility in Java’s object-oriented ecosystem. This article explores the nuances of these features and their impacts on Java programming, simplifying complex concepts and illustrating their practical applications in modern software development.
Java Modern Collection Utilities
Java’s evolution has always been about simplifying complexity and enhancing efficiency. The collection utilities have undergone significant improvements since JDK 8, transitioning from the Collections utility class to the intuitive List.of(), Map.of(), and Set.of() methods.
Java • AssertJ vs Hamcrest Assertion Frameworks
When working with testing frameworks like JUnit or TestNG, selecting the right assertion framework can significantly enhance the readability of your test code and improve the overall quality of your tests. Two of the most popular Java assertion frameworks are AssertJ and Hamcrest.
Java • Unit Testing Best Practices
Unit testing is a fundamental aspect of software development, ensuring that each individual unit of source code is thoroughly examined and validated for correctness. With Java being one of the most widely used programming languages, it is crucial to adhere to the best practices for unit testing in Java to maintain the integrity and performance of the software.
Logback for Beginners
Logback, a Java-based logging framework within the SLF4J (Simple Logging Facade for Java) ecosystem, is the preferred choice in the Java community, serving as an enhanced successor to the popular Log4j project. It not only carries forward the legacy of Log4j but also brings to the table a quicker implementation, more comprehensive configuration options, and enhanced flexibility for archiving old log files.
Java • Modern Looping And Filtering with Stream API
Java has constantly evolved since its inception, presenting developers with numerous tools and methods to make coding more efficient and readable. Among these are modern techniques for looping and filtering data.
Java • Converting Strings To List
When it comes to working with Java, converting strings into lists is a common and essential operation that can significantly enhance your data processing capabilities. Whether you’re a seasoned programmer or just starting, mastering this technique will prove to be invaluable in your coding endeavors.
Java var Best Practices
Java, with each release and update, continually evolves to simplify the developer’s journey while preserving its core tenets of readability and robustness. One of the notable introductions in Java 10 was the var keyword. As with most new features, it sparked debates and questions regarding its efficacy and best practices.
URI vs URL in Java
In the realm of Java and web development, the terms URL and URI often emerge in discussions, leaving some in a quagmire of confusion. This article aims to elucidate the disparities between the two, elucidating their syntax, utilization in Java, and the nuances that set them apart.
Java vs JavaScript • Which Is In More Demand?
Java and JavaScript, despite their similar names, serve distinct purposes within the realm of software development. As both languages continue to evolve and find niches in the modern tech landscape, it’s crucial to understand their differences and their respective market demands.
Java Cloning Strategies
Object copying is a fundamental aspect of Java programming, finding relevance and utility in diverse contexts. Whether it’s creating independent copies of objects, maintaining object state, or avoiding unintended side effects, understanding efficient and reliable cloning strategies is essential.
Java Comprehensive Guide
Java is a versatile programming language that has gained widespread popularity for its platform independence and robustness. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the various aspects of Java programming, covering essential concepts, tools, and best practices.
Java • Converting Strings To Map
This article discusses converting a string of key-value pairs that are delimited by a specific character, known as a delimiter, into a Map in Java.
Maven vs Gradle
Maven and Gradle are two of the most popular build automation tools for Java-based projects. Both tools are designed to simplify the build process, manage dependencies, and facilitate project organization.
Java 19 Virtual Threads
In this article, we will provide an overview of virtual threads in Java and their use in concurrent programming. We will define what virtual threads are and how they differ from normal threads. Additionally, we will discuss the benefits of virtual threads over traditional concurrency approaches and provide code examples to illustrate the differences between the two.
Decoupling Domain Objects: Simplifying System Architecture
When you design an object-oriented system from top to bottom, sometimes the objects that represent the “domain” (what the system is about) don’t match the objects that represent the “entities” (what the system stores). To solve this problem, you can use a technique called “decoupling” to separate the layers of objects.
Java Final Modifier
In Java, the final keyword (also known as a modifier) is used to mark a variable, method, or class as immutable, meaning its value or behavior cannot be modified once it has been initialized.
Java Records
A Java record is a new feature introduced in Java 14 that allows developers to create a class that is primarily used to store data. A record is essentially a concise way to define a class that consists mainly of state (fields) and accessors (getters).
Java 17 Features
JDK 17, introduces several new features and improvements, including enhanced random number generators, new encoding-specific methods for the String class, and default classes for Java ciphers. It also removes the experimental AOT and JIT compilers, and introduces support for Sealed Classes and Records. These changes provide developers with more flexibility and control, making it easier to write efficient and secure Java applications.
Java Optional - Why Developers Prefer Optional Values
This article discusses the use of Java Optional to introduce optional values instead of null. We will deep dive into understanding why developers prefer the Optional class to clearly communicate an optional value as opposed to a vague null representation of a variable.
Java • Int to String Conversion Guide
In Java, often times the ability to return a string representing the specified integer is a common task. This article illustrates several mechanisms to convert int to a string in Java. In the opposite scenario, the means to resolve an integer representing the value of the specified String. The returned value is an Integer object that is the equivalent integer value of the argument string.
Java • Double to String Conversion | Beginner's Guide
Converting double to a String value in Java has been a typical task to do for software development. This article discusses the various ways on how to convert a double to a string in Java. While there are advantages in representing a double to its String object representation, the opposite task of converting a String object to a double can also be addressed. This document examines the reasons why conversions of double in Java are beneficial for beginners who are learning to develop in java.
Setting Java Compiler Version in Maven
This document demonstrates ways to set the java compiler version in maven via the maven.compiler.target property and the maven-compiler-plugin configuration section.
Getting Started with Maven Build System in Java Projects
The following page will illustrate how to get started with the maven build system in your java projects.  Use this guide as a reference when using Maven for the very first time.
Getting Started With Java
The following page will illustrate how to get started with the Java Programming Language.  In addition, this document provides an overview of how to install java and the environment variables you will need to set.  A hands-on approach illustrates how to compile and run your first Hello World java code.
Getting Started With Gradle
The following page will be an excellent guide with getting started with the gradle build system in your Java™ projects.  Use this guide as a reference when using Gradle as a build system for the very first time.