How to remove unused imports in Intellij IDEA on commit?

java

best-practices

tools

code-management

To have IntelliJ IDEA get rid of unused imports during a commit:

Commit -> Gear -> Optimize imports (✔)

Just by checking one option, your code becomes more concise and readable!

Set up your IDE like a pro

To make coding a smooth sail, customize your IDE with these tricks:

Choose Auto-Import: Go to Settings/Preferences -> Editor -> General -> Auto Import, then tick the Optimize imports on the fly checkbox. Your imports stay neat and tidy in real-time!

// The steps are almost as easy as pouring milk on cereal.

Arm yourself with the Save Actions Plugin: This allows you to optimize imports each time you save your file. Your code gets cleaner without you doing a thing!

// It's like having a personal cleaner for your code

Personalize Shortcuts: Regularly optimizing the imports by hand? Set a memorable shortcut and conquer!

Cleaner and more efficient code can be yours through batch optimization:

Cleaning the Whole House: To remove unused imports from your entire project or a module, select it in the Project view, then click: Code -> Optimize Imports.

// Wave your magic wand and Voilà! Rubbish be gone!

Routine Checks: A tidy project is a happy project. Make it a habit to run Optimize Imports before you make a big commit.
Code Style Settings: Define how imports are treated in Settings/Preferences -> Editor -> Code Style -> Java. Maybe you want to order your imports in a specific way? Or, you want a bit of space between each one? This is your playground.

Reduce import clutter further with these strategies:

Stay vigilant: Keep an eye on your code. When you see an unused import, zap it out of the code!
Collective responsibility: Encourage your programming pals to keep their imports optimized - team efforts produce cleaner code.
Code Reviews: Leave notes on missed optimization opportunities during team code reviews.

Below are some bonus tips to keep on top of your imports:

Shortcut Heaven: For Windows/Linux use <kbd>CTRL</kbd> + <kbd>ALT</kbd> + <kbd>O</kbd>, for Mac <kbd>Cmd</kbd> + <kbd>Option</kbd> + <kbd>O</kbd> to manually call the Optimize Imports action. Sneaky, right?
Reformat Code: The Reformat code box in the commit dialog is like a code beautician! Activate it alongside the import optimization for a more uniformed code styling.
Control Imports Layout: In the code style settings, tweak your imports layout to define a uniform structure. Perhaps you want all Java imports together, separated from third-party libraries?