Constructors
Definition
Constructors are special methods within classes that are used to initialize objects when they are created. They have the same name as the class and are called automatically when an object is instantiated.
Analogy
Think of constructors as a recipe for baking cookies. When you want to make cookies, you follow a specific set of instructions (the constructor) that outlines what ingredients to use and how to mix them together. Each time you make a batch of cookies (create an object), the constructor is called to ensure everything is set up correctly.
Related terms
Instance Variables: Instance variables are attributes or properties associated with objects of a class. They hold unique values for each instance/object.
Default Constructor: A default constructor is a constructor that takes no arguments and provides default values for instance variables if not explicitly initialized.
Parameterized Constructor: A parameterized constructor is a constructor that accepts parameters/arguments during object creation and uses those values to initialize instance variables.
"Constructors" appears in:
Study guides (1)
Additional resources (1)
Practice Questions (3)
- When it comes to passing in reference and primitive values to constructors, what kind of language is Java?
- What are constructors used for in a subclass?
- Which of the following is true about constructors in subclasses?
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