JAVA Generic Class And Its Methods
Introduction to Java Generics
• Java Generics enable classes, interfaces, and methods to operate
on types specified by the programmer.
• They provide compile-time type safety by allowing type parameters
to be used and reducing runtime errors.
• Generics improve code reusability and readability by eliminating the
need for casting.
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Understanding Generic Classes
• A generic class is defined with type parameters that act as
placeholders for actual types.
• Objects of generic classes can hold different data types, increasing
flexibility.
• Example syntax: `public class Box<T> { ... }` where `T` is a type
parameter.
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Declaring a Generic Class
• The class declaration includes angle brackets with one or more type
parameters.
• Multiple type parameters can be used, separated by commas, e.g.,
`<K, V>`.
• Type parameters can have bounds, such as `<T extends Number>`,
to restrict types.
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Creating Instances of Generic Classes
• Instantiate a generic class by specifying actual types in angle
brackets, e.g., `Box<Integer> intBox = new Box<>();`.
• The diamond operator `<>` infers the type, simplifying syntax.
• Type safety is enforced, preventing incompatible type assignments.
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Generic Methods
• Generic methods declare their own type parameters independent of
class-level parameters.
• Syntax example: `public <T> void display(T element) { ... }`.
• These methods can be invoked with various types, increasing
method flexibility.
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Benefits of Using Generics
• Generics eliminate the need for explicit type casting, reducing
errors.
• They enable compile-time type checking, ensuring code robustness.
• Generics promote code reusability by allowing classes and methods
to work with different data types.
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Bounded Type Parameters
• Bounded type parameters restrict the types that can be used with a
generic class or method.
• Syntax example: `<T extends Number>` limits `T` to `Number` and
its subclasses.
• This ensures certain methods or properties are available on the type
parameter.
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Wildcards in Generics
• Wildcards (`?`) allow for more flexible generic method parameters or
class declarations.
• Extends wildcard (`<? extends T>`) is used for covariance, allowing
subtypes.
• Super wildcard (`<? super T>`) is used for contravariance, allowing
supertypes.
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Common Use Cases of Generics
• Collections framework classes like `List`, `Set`, and `Map` are
generic.
• Custom generic classes and methods can be designed for specific
business logic.
• Generics are useful in designing algorithms that work on different
data types without code duplication.
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Summary and Best Practices
• Always specify type parameters for clarity and type safety.
• Use bounded type parameters to enforce constraints on generic
types.
• Avoid overusing wildcards when the type relationship is not clear, to
maintain code readability.
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