Are there any Java method ordering conventions?

java

best-practices

refactoring

code-quality

byNikita Barsukov·Oct 25, 2024

// hu-ha! Here's the magic spell to summon the Java spirit!

public class MyClass {

  // 1. Constructors - Let's give birth to a class! 
  public MyClass() { /* Party time! */ }
  
  // 2. Static fields - because static is fantastic!
  private static int staticField; // Sole survivor
  
  // 3. Instance fields - got any issues? call these instances!
  private int field; // field goals
  
  // 4. Static methods - statics are the new classics!
  public static void staticMethod() { /* Wave the static magic wand! */ }
  
  // 5. Instance methods - what are we without our instances?
  public void method() { /* Method to madness! */ }
  
  // 6. Private utilities - the unsung heroes
  private void utilityMethod() { /* secret sauce goes here */ }

}

Here's the scoop:

Constructors - the gatekeepers.
Fields, with the static ones leading the charge.
Public methods, as they're the VIPs here.
Rounding it out with the private sidekicks.

What it means:

Flow mirrors object lifecycle - from creation to utility.
Grouping related elements - like peas in a pod.

Light on the tips!

If you've got to take it up a notch, here's how:

Public over Private: Put your public API first. Make it as accessible as your favorite coffee mug.
Logical order: Arrange methods by their natural flow to maintain your class story.
Accessor Alignment: Group getters and setters at the end but close to their related fields. It keeps them from getting lonely.

When classes grow up

Large classes that seem like a sprawling city need a touch of order too:

Break it down: if your class is flirting with gigantism, it's time to split it up.
Matter Over Generic: Prominent non-static methods should supersede the regular auxiliary folk.
Private matters: Private methods with zero inside connection should sit at the end.

Static and "main" method - the VIP lounge

Keep an eye on your static methods and the celebrated main method:

Statics after Constructors: They're self-sufficient utilities. They operate on a class level, not instances.
'main' Flexibility: It's your game, so keep 'main' where you fancy - top for visibility or bottom as an exit point.

Refactoring and naming makes code dapper

Remember, refactoring and apt naming are the secret ingredients of readable code:

Functional Class Names: Make class names speak for themselves. It sets an inherent method ordering.
Adaptive Refactoring: Learning to refactor code better is akin to packing a survival kit.
Speak Up, Properly!: Make method names communicative to hint their roles, so they sit at the correct spot, chilling like a villain.

explain-codes / Java / Are there any Java method ordering conventions?

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