Intellij IDEA jump from interface to implementing class in Java

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byAlex Kataev·Dec 4, 2024

If you need to jump from an interface to its implementations in IntelliJ IDEA, place your cursor on the interface name, then use Ctrl+Alt+B (Win/Linux) or Cmd+Alt+B (Mac). This magic incantation either opens a popup listing all known implementations or teleports you directly there, in the case of a sole implementation.

public interface Cake {
    void eat();
}

// Gently hover over 'Cake', then trigger the magic shortcut and
// voila! You're in the delicious implementation:
public class ChocolateCake implements Cake {
    @Override
    public void eat() {
        // Mmm... chocolate...
    }
}

Remember, folks: Ctrl+Alt+B or Cmd+Alt+B is your cake-cutter.

Tired of the keyboard, or just training your new apprentice? Right-click the interface and select "Go To" -> "Implementations" from the context menu to initiate the same teleportation mechanism.

Or, consider this cool kid's trick: Enable Ctrl+click (or Cmd+click for the Apple-touched) in your settings and discover a clickable journey to your destination.

Working with a widely implemented interface? No worries! The “Find Usages” feature with Alt+F7 (Win/Linux) or Cmd+F7 (Mac) has got you covered.

Customize IntelliJ IDEA for comfort

We all love making our own den cozy. Head to "Preferences" -> "Keymap" and customize the default shortcuts to fit your needs. All the keys of the kingdom are in the "Default Keymap Reference" under the "Help" menu.

Don't forget to set up shortcuts for "Recent Files" and "Recently Edited Files" to toggle back and forth, like a pro, without losing your flow.

Inject superpowers using IntelliJ IDEA's features

Looking for more hidden treasures in IntelliJ? Let's go treasure hunting! Press Ctrl+Shift+A (or Cmd+Shift+A on Mac), type "navigation" and lay back as IntelliJ reveals secrets, including how to jump to a superclass, the Hogwarts way.

Don't miss the speed search within pop-up windows (like the one triggered by Ctrl+Alt+B). Start typing the name, and IntelliJ magically filters the list. Fast as Flash, smart as Hermione.

Practical tips

Learn your shortcuts—They're the cheat-codes of IntelliJ IDEA.
Personalize your environment—Tailor your IDE with custom keymaps to have it fit like your favorite chair.
Understand the context—IntelliJ has a deep understanding of the context. Use shortcuts where they're made to be used, not everywhere.
Stay updated—Keep the dialogue going with IntelliJ. They surprise us with cool stuff we didn't even know we needed!
Plug in—Extend your IDE's functionality with the ocean of plugins available. Venture forth!