Linking to an external URL in Javadoc?
To incorporate an external URL in your Javadoc, you can make use of the @see
tag complemented with an inline HTML <a>
tag, as demonstrated below:
This handy piece of code places a direct, clickable path to Example.com within your Javadoc documentation.
Techniques for beneficial links
With Javadoc, you can wield standard HTML to create impactful and unambiguous external links within your documentation:
Few key points to keep in mind:
- Utilize absolute links for constant, reliable resources.
- Reserve relative links only when referencing resources within your local project or server.
- Steer clear of false beliefs like non-existing Javadoc tags such as
@linktourl
as, sadly, they're as real as unicorns in software development.
Crafting insightful Javadoc references
To assemble a top-notch Javadoc, your links should serve a greater purpose - delivering beneficial insights and assisting users of your APIs.
Effortless understanding via trimming
Minimize bloated phrases and unnecessary jargon; keep your Javadoc focused and flexible. For example, instead of "Please find, on the line below, a link you could use to obtain more information", you can streamline to "Learn more at: <link>
."
Magnify meaningful content
Highlight pivotal external resources at the start of your Javadoc, allowing other developers to uncover key resources swiftly and efficiently. You know, best things first:
Look and learn from source code
Investigate well-documented libraries like javax.ws.rs.core.HttpHeaders
to gain insights into real-world implementations of Javadoc with external links. They are like cookbooks for crafting tasteful API documentation.
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