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Understanding Java Final Variables and Methods

A final variable in Java is a constant whose value cannot be changed after initialization, while a final method cannot be overridden by subclasses, and a final class cannot be extended. The final keyword can be applied at the variable, method, and class levels to enforce these restrictions. Examples demonstrate the usage of final variables, methods, and classes, highlighting the errors that occur when attempting to modify or override them.

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2 views3 pages

Understanding Java Final Variables and Methods

A final variable in Java is a constant whose value cannot be changed after initialization, while a final method cannot be overridden by subclasses, and a final class cannot be extended. The final keyword can be applied at the variable, method, and class levels to enforce these restrictions. Examples demonstrate the usage of final variables, methods, and classes, highlighting the errors that occur when attempting to modify or override them.

Uploaded by

keerthaniarul
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

final Variable

Definition:
A final variable is a constant. Once assigned, its value cannot be changed.

• It is used to make a variable as a constant, Restrict method overriding, Restrict


inheritance.
• It is used at variable level, method level and class level. In java language final keyword
can be used in following way.

Element Description Can it be changed/extended?

final variable Value cannot be changed ❌ No reassignment

final method Cannot be overridden in subclass ❌ No overriding

final class Cannot be extended ❌ No inheritance

Example:

Final at Variable Level :


• Final keyword is used to make a variable as a constant.
• This is similar to const in other language. A variable declared with the final keyword
cannot be modified by the program after initialization.

public class FinalVariableExample {


public static void main(String[] args) {
final int MAX_VALUE = 100;

// MAX_VALUE = 200; // ❌ Error: Cannot assign a value to final variable


[Link]("Max value: " + MAX_VALUE);
}
}
✅ 2. final Method
Definition:
A final method cannot be overridden by subclasses. It ensures that the method’s behavior
remains unchanged.

1. It makes a method final, meaning that sub classes can not override this method.
2. The compiler checks and gives an error if you try to override the method.
3. When we want to restrict overriding, then make a method as a final.

Example:
class Parent {
final void display() {
[Link]("Final method in Parent");
}
}

class Child extends Parent {

// void display() { // ❌ Error: Cannot override the final method


// [Link]("Trying to override");
// }
}
✅ 3. final Class
Definition:
A final class cannot be extended (inherited). It prevents other classes from creating
subclasses.
Example:
final class FinalClass {
void show() {
[Link]("Inside FinalClass");
}
}

// class SubClass extends FinalClass { // ❌ Error: Cannot subclass the final class
// }

public class FinalClassExample {


public static void main(String[] args) {
FinalClass obj = new FinalClass();
[Link]();
}
}

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