Intellij Idea: Importing Gradle project - getting JAVA_HOME not defined yet

Initial checks: Update IntelliJ and Choose the Right JDK

Before moving to other steps, it's important to perform some due diligence. Ensure IntelliJ IDEA is up to date to prevent compatibility issues with your JDK version.

Setting JAVA_HOME for MacOS Users

On Mac OS, use launchctl to set JAVA_HOME. This not only sets the variable at user level, but it also gets respected by GUI applications.

launchctl setenv JAVA_HOME `/usr/libexec/java_home`
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Looking for a permanent fix? Then add the export command (as shown in the Fast Answer section) to your .bash_profile, .zshrc, or .profile file.

Cross-verification of JAVA_HOME

After setting JAVA_HOME, confirm if it's working. Open a terminal and type:

echo $JAVA_HOME  # If it's a path, it's a pass!
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Symbiosis: JAVA_HOME and IntelliJ

Within IntelliJ IDEA, travel through the maze of options to Project Structure (Cmd + ; on MacOS or Ctrl + Alt + Shift + S on Windows/Linux). Ensure that the Project SDK matches your JAVA_HOME path, just like peas in a pod.

If things still look south: Troubleshoot IntelliJ settings

If Einstein's theory of JetBrains isn't making everything relative yet:

• Try resolving any conflicting Java settings in IntelliJ's System Preferences.
• Reinstalling IntelliJ IDEA could be your Augustine's "Confessions" to reach a higher plane of working configurations.
• To manage different Java versions more effectively, tools like jenv could be your MacOS's BFF.

Indulge in 64-bit luxury on Windows with IntelliJ IDEA

Windows users: Don't let the thrill of using a 32-bit IntelliJ IDEA keep you in the Stone Age. Opt for the 64-bit version to scale up your Gradle Project's performance.

Tips and Tricks: Solving Most Common Issues

Here are some common pain points with their antidotes, just in case you need them while setting up JAVA_HOME with IntelliJ:

JAVA_HOME is set but IntelliJ gives a cold shoulder

Solution: Use the terminal inside IntelliJ to check JAVA_HOME. If it's a mismatch, amend the IntelliJ IDEA Run Configuration Environment variables.

Gradle sync failing to shake a leg after setting JAVA_HOME

Solution: Open gradle.properties, then state the Java version there, clear as crystal. Clear the Gradle cache and then re-import the project, like meeting an old friend again.

A cocktail of Java versions causing a hangover

Solution: Switch between Java versions using jenv or SDKMAN! for MacOS and Linux. Just like changing channels on a TV, but for Java.

Déjà vu: JAVA_HOME changes keep disappearing

Solution: Leave a permanent mark by setting the variable in system-wide settings such as /etc/environment on Linux or System Properties on Windows.