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What is Static Method in Java with Examples

What is the Static Method in Java?

If you have ever tried learning Java, you might have an idea about the Java static method. So, what is static method in java? Simply put, the static method in Java belongs to a class instead of the instance of any class. That means one can call a method even without creating the class’s object. At times, a static method in Java is also referred to as class methods.

Moreover, Java static method get used to perform certain operations that aren’t specific to any object. The best examples are mathematical operations. So, are you planning to learn AI & ML course? If yes, it’s time to learn how to use a static method in Java first. Gain an in-depth insight into the rudimentary concepts including how to use of static method in Java.

When Should We Use Static Methods in Java?

One of the most common and widely acceptable uses for a static method in Java is accessing static variables. They get accessed by a class name & a dot. It then gets followed by a method’s name. They get declared with a keyword while defining the Java static method.

In simple words, static methods get accessed without the need for creating any new object. The method can use & call other methods or static data members. In general, it can also be used for operating on the input arguments that can compute calculations & return value.

What are the Rules for Static Methods in Java?

Talking about the rules, static methods in Java comprise the following rules:

• They cannot access any class’s non-static members (methods or variables)
• They cannot be overridden
• One can use the “this” keyword inside a static method

Do you know what the prime Java static method is? Simply put, they are the most efficient than the standard methods. They do not need any class instance to run. Thus, they are ideal for jobs that do not depend on any specified instance data. Get an insight into the Overview of Data Structure & Algorithms from here.

Restrictions in Static Methods in Java 

After knowing what is static method in Java with example, given below are the prime restrictions in the static method in Java:

• The non-static data members or non-static methods cannot get used by the static methods (note that the static methods can’t directly call the non-static methods)
• In any static environment, one cannot use ‘this’ and ‘super’

So, how to use of static method in Java? Did you know static methods get created in Java using a static keyword? Yes, you read that right. And the syntax for creating the Java static method is mentioned in the below-offered narration:

Suppose you have a class with two specific static methods – describe & introduce. Two static methods should be created in a code – describe & introduce. One can call the methods without even creating the object of the class.

From this explanation, it can be stated that the static methods use the class name followed by a method name. And it does not require creating any class object.

One quick tip: To gather knowledge about Python lists, click on Lists in Python.

What are the Pros and Cons of Static Methods in Java?

After understanding what is static method in Java with example, Here are the prime benefits of static methods in java:

• More efficient than the non-static methods (note that the compiler can inline a static method’s code into a caller)
• It can be accessed from anywhere without creating the class’s instance
• But did you know there are a few downfalls to this method? However, they are negligible. On that note, here’s mentioning the cons of static methods:
• May make the code less flexible
• It might not be overridden when you require adding customized functionality

Difference Between a Static and an Instance Method?

As you already know what is static method in Java with examples, these methods belong to a class instead of an instance. So, they can be called without creating the class’s instance. They are also called from a subclass or within the same package. Moreover, they are used for utility functions like:

• Mathematical operations
• Input/output operations

On the other hand, instance methods are useful for actions specific to a certain object. The subclasses might override these methods, although the other one cannot. One can also call a static method from any other static method. However, one cannot call the static method from the instance method.

Types of Static Methods in Java

Want to know the different types of static methods in Java? After understanding what is static method in Java, learn the types from the following:

• Method (also referred to as the class method)
• Variable (also popular as the class variable)
• Nested class
• Block

But you also need to understand when to use them. In simple terms, they should be used when you wish to perform something not specific to a particular class instance. Here’s noting down the examples of using static methods in Java. 

One quick note: Get an understanding of the types of data structure in detail.

Examples & Uses of Static Method in Java

So, you know what is static method in Java with examples. After discussing the quintessential aspects of how-to use of static method in java, now is the right time to get a practical understanding. Learn more about the examples from the below-offered narration:

Creating a Utility Class

Now you know what is static method in Java with examples. Let’s state that you want to create the utility class. And it comprises methods that are useful for performing mathematical operations. You may create a class known as MathUtils with the static methods for subtraction, division, addition, and multiplication.

In the code, you must create a utility class with four different static methods to perform mathematical calculations. You may call Java static methods without even creating the MathUtils object.

Implementing the Singleton Design Pattern

Do you know what singletons are? Simply put, they are useful as they help manage resources like thread pools and database connections. Suppose you wish to create a class representing the database connection. You may wish to ensure that there’s a connection to that database. That makes it evident to use this singleton design pattern.

In the code, you need to declare the constructor class as private. That will prevent other classes from installing that class. You also need to declare the class’s static instance & a particular static method in Java that helps get the class’s instance.

Conclusion

Now that you have learned what is static method in Java with examples, you can use them effectively. You have also understood the difference between the static & instance methods. Also, you have learned the types with effective examples followed by their explanations.

With this knowledge, you can confidently use static methods in the JAVA programs. Start using the methods in Java after understanding the common FAQs mentioned below: