Java Programming Exam Study Guide

Java Programming Exam Study Guide | Generated by AI

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Here’s a practical, exam-oriented guide for the first part of “08553 Introduction to Programming—Java”, based on the National Higher Education Self-study Examination in China syllabus. It focuses on concepts, examples, and key points that beginners must master.

1. Java Language Overview

1.1 Java Characteristics

Platform Independence: Java code compiles into bytecode, which runs on any device with a Java Virtual Machine (JVM) — “Write once, run anywhere.”
Object-Oriented: Supports encapsulation, inheritance, and polymorphism.
Secure and Robust: Automatic memory management (garbage collection) and strong type checking reduce errors.
Multithreading: Supports concurrent execution of multiple tasks.
Rich Standard Library (API): Includes ready-made classes for math, strings, files, networking, etc.

1.2 Java Versions and Components

JDK (Java Development Kit): For developers — includes compiler (javac), JVM, and development tools.
JRE (Java Runtime Environment): For end-users — includes JVM + core libraries.
API (Application Programming Interface): Java’s built-in class libraries, such as java.lang, java.util, java.io, etc.

2. Java Development Tools (IDE and CLI)

2.1 Common IDEs

For the exam, you just need to know their purpose:

Eclipse, IntelliJ IDEA, NetBeans: Used to write, compile, and run Java code easily.

2.2 Command-Line Workflow

Typical compilation and execution steps:

Write your code in a .java file, e.g. Hello.java
Compile it:
```
javac Hello.java
```
→ Produces Hello.class (bytecode file)
Run it:
```
java Hello
```
(No .class extension when running)

2.3 Simple Example

public class Hello {
    public static void main(String[] args) {
        System.out.println("Hello, Java!");
    }
}

3. Programming Style Guidelines

3.1 Naming Conventions

Classes: CamelCase, first letter capitalized → StudentInfo
Variables & Methods: camelCase, start lowercase → studentName, calculateScore()
Constants: All uppercase with underscores → MAX_SIZE

3.2 Indentation and Comments

Use consistent indentation (4 spaces typical).

Write clear comments:

// This is a single-line comment
/* This is a multi-line comment */

3.3 Code Structure

Follow logical grouping and readability:

Each file contains one public class with the same name as the file.
Keep lines short and meaningful; one statement per line.

4. Common Programming Errors and Debugging Basics

4.1 Syntax Errors

Detected by the compiler:

Missing semicolon ;
Mismatched braces { }

Wrong capitalization (Java is case-sensitive)

System.out.println("Hi"); // correct
system.out.println("Hi"); // error

4.2 Runtime Errors

Occur while running the program:

Dividing by zero
Array index out of bounds
Null pointer exceptions

4.3 Logic Errors

Program runs but gives incorrect output. → Use print statements or debugger tools in IDEs to trace variable values step-by-step.

5. Key Points for the Exam

Understand JDK, JRE, JVM roles and differences.
Know how to compile and run Java from both IDE and command line.
Remember basic syntax rules and style standards.
Be able to identify common errors and explain their causes.
Practice writing small programs that:
- Print messages
- Use variables and expressions
- Follow correct structure and naming

6. Sample Exam-style Question

Example 1:

Which of the following statements about Java is incorrect? A. Java supports platform independence through bytecode B. Java programs must always be compiled into native machine code C. The JVM executes compiled bytecode D. Java programs can be run on any system with a JVM installed

Answer: B

Example 2:

What command compiles a Java source file named Test.java? A. java Test B. javac Test.java C. run Test D. compile Test

Answer: B

Would you like me to continue with Part II: Basic Syntax and Data Types next (the next major section in this course)? It will follow the same clear, exam-oriented structure.

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