Java Naming Convention – A Detailed Guide

What is Java Naming Convention?

•  Java Naming Convention is a set of rules for naming various code elements (such as: classes, methods, variables, packages) in the Java programming language.

Example:

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int studentAge; // correct

int StudentAge; // incorrect (the first letter for variables should be lowercase)

Importance of Naming Convention

•  It makes the code easier to read

•  It maintains coordination in collaborative work

•  It reduces errors

•  It maintains consistency in large projects

Java Code Structure and Naming

•  In Java, each element has a separate identity. Proper naming makes it easier to identify and use.

Class name naming convention

•  The first letter of each word should be capitalized (PascalCase)

•  The class name should be singular

•  It should be clear and meaningful

Example:

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public class StudentDetails {}

Interface name naming convention

•  Use PascalCase

•  Often ending with “able”, “ible”, “er”

Example:

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public interface Readable {}

Method naming convention

•  Use camelCase (first word should be lowercase, next one should be capitalized)

•  Use verb

Example:

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public void calculateTotal() {}

Variable naming convention

•  Use camelCase

•  It should be clear and meaningful

Example:

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int totalMarks;

Constant naming style

•  All letters are uppercase (UPPER_CASE)

•  Use underscore (_) to separate words

Example:

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public static final int MAX_STUDENTS = 100;

Package naming convention

•  All letters are lowercase

•  Reverse domain naming

Example:

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com.example.projectname;

Array and object naming style

•  Use plurals

•  Meaningful names for objects

Example:

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String[] studentNames;

Rules for boolean variables

•  Names starting with is, has, can

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boolean isPassed;

Naming Getter and Setter Methods

•  get/set + variable name (in PascalCase)

Example:

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public int getAge() {}

public void setAge(int age) {}

Naming Abstract Class

•  Can use the word “Abstract”, but as needed

•  PascalCase

Example:

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public abstract class AbstractShape {}

Naming Generic Type Parameters

•  Use a single letter (T, E, K, V etc.)

•  Example:

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class Box<T> {}

Naming Unit Test Methods

•  Detailed, explain what it checks

Example:

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public void testCalculateTotalMarks() {}

Naming Thread Class and Runnable

“Thread” or “Task” is added at the end

Example:

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public class FileDownloadTask implements Runnable {}

Naming of objects and fields

•  Use camelCase

•  Require clarity for specific variables

Naming of error and exception classes

•  End with “Exception”

Example:

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public class InvalidUserException extends Exception {}

Naming rules for API development

•  Plural resource names in RESTful API

•  Name functions according to HTTP methods

Example:

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GET /students

POST /students

Common naming conventions and convention breakers

•  Avoid less meaningful or very common names

Example (incorrect):

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int a; // incorrect

Correct:

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int studentCount;

Spelling and Abbreviations in Naming

•  Precise Spelling is Mandatory

•  Abbreviations should be avoided (e.g. numberOfStudents instead of numStud)

Case Sensitivity in Naming

•  Age, AGE, and age are considered three different names in Java.

Translation, Linguistic Variation, and Naming

•  Choose names that are clear and universally understood in English

Tips for Good Naming Conventions

•  Ask yourself – “Will anyone understand this name clearly?”

•  A long, meaningful name is better than a short name

Conclusion and Practice

Naming Conventions are not just for aesthetics, they are also very important for code understanding, debugging, and teamwork.

You can use the examples and rules in this article to make your Java programming naming more organized and professional.

Also Read:

• Java switch statement complete guide

• What is a while loop in java?

• What is java continue statement?