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:

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

Main.java
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.

Main.java
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

Main.java
class Student {
    Student() {
        // Initialization code
    }
}

Part 3 — Example

Problem: Initialize a student's name and roll number at the time of creation.

Student.java
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

Step-by-Step Process

  1. Define the class and its attributes.
  2. Write the constructor using this to distinguish parameters from fields.
  3. Instantiate the objects with realistic data.

Expected Deliverables

Solve in Compiler