Chapter 4 — Java Classes & Objects
📚 Chapter Overview
Java is an Object-Oriented language. In this chapter, you will move from procedural scripts to building "Blueprints" for real-world entities using Classes and creating living instances called Objects.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the difference between a Class and an Object.
- Master Constructors and the
thiskeyword. - Learn about Access Modifiers (Public, Private).
4.1 Class and Object Fundamentals
Part 1 — Definition
A Class is a user-defined blueprint from which objects are created. It represents the set of properties or methods that are common to all objects of one type. An Object is a basic unit of Object-Oriented Programming and represents real-life entities.
Part 2 — Syntax
class ClassName {
// Fields (Attributes)
// Methods (Behaviors)
}
ClassName obj = new ClassName(); // Object creation
Part 3 — Example
Problem: Model a simple "Car" with a brand and a method to start.
class Car {
String brand;
void drive() {
System.out.println(brand + " is driving...");
}
}
public class Main {
public static void main(String[] args) {
Car myCar = new Car();
myCar.brand = "Tesla";
myCar.drive();
}
}
Part 4 — Video
Video: Coming Soon
4.2 Constructors
Part 1 — Definition
A Constructor is a special method that is used to initialize objects. It is called when an object of a class is created. It has the same name as the class and no return type. If you don't define one, Java provides a "Default Constructor".
Part 2 — Syntax
class Student {
Student() {
// Initialization code
}
}
Part 3 — Example
Problem: Initialize a student's name and roll number at the time of creation.
class Student {
String name;
int roll;
Student(String n, int r) {
name = n;
roll = r;
}
}
Observation: Constructors ensure that an object is never in an invalid state after creation.
Part 4 — Video
Video: Coming Soon
🏆 Chapter Challenge
Challenge Objective
Build a "Library Book System" using Classes and Objects.
Requirements
- Create a
Bookclass with Title, Author, and Price. - Use a parameterized constructor to set values.
- Create a method
displayDetails(). - In
main(), create 3 book objects and display them.
Step-by-Step Process
- Define the class and its attributes.
- Write the constructor using
thisto distinguish parameters from fields. - Instantiate the objects with realistic data.
Expected Deliverables
LibrarySystem.javasource code.