Java OOps Interview Questions
Java OOps Interview Questions
Sample Answer: In Java, a class is a template or blueprint that defines the structure and behavior
of objects. Objects, on the other hand, are instances of these classes, embodying the class's
characteristics.
Sample Answer: Inheritance in Java enables a class to inherit attributes and methods from
another class. It promotes code reusability by allowing new classes to be based on existing ones.
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How to Respond: Clarify the use of 'super' to refer to the superclass and 'this' to refer to the
current instance. Mention their significance in constructor calls and variable distinctions.
Sample Answer: In Java, the 'super' keyword refers to the superclass, while 'this' refers to the
current instance. 'Super' is used to access superclass members, and 'this' is used to avoid naming
conflicts in constructors.
Sample Answer: Method overloading involves using the same method name with different
parameters, while method overriding occurs when a subclass provides its implementation for a
superclass method.
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Sample Answer: Abstraction simplifies complex systems by focusing on essential features. In
Java, it's achieved through abstract classes and interfaces, which define blueprints for
subclasses.
Sample Answer: Encapsulation in Java bundles data and methods into a single unit (class),
protecting data from unauthorized access. Access modifiers like private, protected, and public
control data visibility.
Sample Answer: Interfaces in Java serve as contracts for classes, ensuring that implementing
classes adhere to specific methods. They enable multiple inheritance-like behavior by allowing a
class to implement multiple interfaces.
Sample Answer: Composition in Java involves combining objects to create more complex ones.
It promotes code reusability and modularity by allowing the creation of smaller, independent
building blocks.
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Question 11: What Are Constructors in Java, and How Do
They Differ from Methods?
How to Respond: Clarify that constructors initialize objects, have the same name as the class,
and don't return values. Explain their role in object creation.
Sample Answer: Constructors in Java initialize objects and have the same name as the class.
Unlike methods, they don't return values. Constructors play a crucial role in creating objects.
Sample Answer: The 'final' keyword in Java makes classes, methods, and variables unmodifiable.
It prevents class inheritance, method overriding, and variable value changes, ensuring code
stability.
Sample Answer: Java employs automatic garbage collection to reclaim memory occupied by
objects no longer in use. This prevents memory leaks, optimizes memory utilization, and
enhances application performance.
Question 14: What Is the 'equals' Method, and How Can You
Override It for Custom Comparisons?
How to Respond: Explain that 'equals' is used to compare objects for content equality. Describe
how to override it to perform custom comparisons.
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Sample Answer: The 'equals' method in Java is used to compare objects for content equality. It
can be overridden in classes to customize how objects are compared, ensuring precise equality
checks.
Sample Answer: 'hashCode' and 'equals' methods are vital in Java collections. 'hashCode'
ensures efficient data retrieval, while 'equals' helps collections identify object equality, supporting
data organization and retrieval.
Sample Answer: The 'toString' method returns a string representation of an object. Overriding it
is crucial to provide meaningful and readable representations of objects, aiding debugging and
logging.
Sample Answer: Java employs try-catch blocks to handle exceptions, ensuring graceful error
management. Checked exceptions must be handled or declared, while unchecked exceptions
need not be explicitly declared.
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Question 18: Discuss the Role of the 'static' Keyword in Java
OOP and Its Impact on Variables and Methods.
How to Respond: Explain that 'static' associates a variable or method with the class rather than
instances. Discuss its impact on shared variables and methods.
Sample Answer: The 'static' keyword in Java associates variables and methods with the class
rather than instances. This results in shared data among all instances and allows calling methods
without object creation.
Sample Answer: Nested classes in Java are classes within other classes. They enhance code
organization by encapsulating related functionality, promoting modularity and clean code.
Sample Answer: The 'transient' keyword in Java is used to exclude variables from serialization.
It's crucial in controlling which variables are included in the serialization process, enhancing data
integrity.
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Sample Answer: Anonymous inner classes in Java are unnamed classes defined within a method
or code block. They are used for tasks like event handling or small, one-time implementations of
interfaces.
Sample Answer: Method chaining in Java involves invoking multiple methods on an object in a
single line. It's employed to create fluent interfaces that make code more readable and
expressive.
Sample Answer: The 'enum' keyword in Java is used to define a fixed set of named constants.
Enumerations are suitable for situations where a restricted set of values is needed, enhancing
code clarity and maintainability.
Sample Answer: Packages in Java organize related classes, enhancing code organization.
Access modifiers control the visibility of classes, methods, and variables, promoting
encapsulation and security.
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Question 1: What is Object-Oriented Programming (OOP)?
How to Respond: Interviewers ask this to assess your basic OOP understanding. Explain that
OOP is a programming paradigm based on objects and classes, emphasizing reusability and
modularity.
Sample Answer: The four pillars of OOP are Encapsulation (hiding data), Inheritance (reusing
code), Polymorphism (many forms), and Abstraction (simplifying complexities).
Sample Answer: Inheritance in Java allows a class to acquire properties and methods from
another class. It promotes code reuse and establishes an "is-a" relationship between classes.
Sample Answer: Encapsulation in Java involves bundling data and methods into a class to
protect data from unauthorized access and simplify code maintenance.
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How to Respond: Discuss polymorphism as the ability of different classes to respond to the same
method in unique ways. Provide examples.
Sample Answer: Polymorphism allows objects of different classes to respond to the same
method differently. For instance, a 'Shape' class can have various subclasses like 'Circle' and
'Rectangle,' each with its own 'calculateArea' method.
Sample Answer: In Java, a class serves as a blueprint for creating objects. It defines the
attributes (data) and behaviors (methods) that objects of that class will have.
Sample Answer: A class is a blueprint that defines the structure and behavior of objects, while an
object is an instance of that class, with its own unique data.
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Sample Answer: A constructor in Java is a special method responsible for initializing objects. It's
crucial for ensuring that objects are created in a valid state.
Sample Answer: Java supports multiple inheritance of interfaces, where a class can implement
multiple interfaces, inheriting multiple sets of methods and behaviors.
Sample Answer: Method overloading in Java allows a class to have multiple methods with the
same name but different parameters. The appropriate method is selected at compile time based
on the arguments provided.
Sample Answer: The 'super' keyword in Java is used to access the members of the superclass
(methods and variables) that have been overridden in the subclass.
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How to Respond: Define an interface as a contract specifying a set of methods that a class
implementing the interface must provide.
Sample Answer: In Java, an interface is a contract that defines a set of methods a class
implementing the interface must provide. It enforces a specific behavior.
Sample Answer: An abstract class in Java can have both concrete and abstract methods, while
an interface contains only abstract methods. Classes can implement multiple interfaces but
extend only one abstract class.
Sample Answer: Method hiding in Java occurs when a subclass defines a static method with the
same name as a static method in the superclass, effectively hiding the superclass method.
Sample Answer: In Java, the 'this' keyword refers to the current object. It is used to distinguish
instance variables from local variables when they have the same name.
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How to Respond: Define a singleton class as a class that allows only one instance and provide an
example of its implementation.
Sample Answer: A singleton class in Java permits only one instance to exist. It is implemented by
creating a private constructor and providing a public method to access the single instance.
Sample Answer: A 'final' class in Java is a class that cannot be extended or subclassed. It's used
when you want to prevent any further modifications through inheritance.
Sample Answer: The 'instanceof' operator in Java is used to determine whether an object is an
instance of a particular class or interface. It returns a boolean value, indicating the result.
Sample Answer: The 'static' keyword in Java is used to create class-level members, such as
variables and methods. These members are associated with the class itself rather than specific
instances.
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How to Respond: Describe how Java allows method overloading based on the number and type
of parameters.
Sample Answer: Java supports method overloading by enabling methods with the same name
but different parameter types or numbers in the same class.
Sample Answer: In Java, the 'final' keyword can be applied to classes, methods, and variables. It
makes classes unextendable, methods unoverridable, and variables constant (their values cannot
be changed).
Sample Answer: In Java, 'String' objects are immutable, meaning their content cannot be altered
once created. Any modification results in a new 'String' object.
Sample Answer: In Java, you can prevent inheritance by either declaring a class as 'final,' making
it unextendable, or by marking its constructors as 'private,' ensuring that no instances can be
created.
These questions cover a range of fundamental OOPs concepts, preparing freshers for Java OOPs
interviews. Feel free to use them in your article, and if you need any more questions or
assistance, please let me know.
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Question 1: What Is Method Overloading in Java?
How to Respond: Interviewers ask this to assess your understanding of method overloading and
its practical applications. Explain that it's the ability to have multiple methods with the same name
in a class but with different parameters, allowing polymorphism.
Sample Answer: Method overloading in Java enables the creation of methods with the same
name but different parameters. For example, you can have calculate(int a, int b) and
calculate(double x, double y) in the same class, offering flexibility in method usage.
Sample Answer: In Java, abstract classes and methods serve as templates for other classes.
Abstract methods lack an implementation in the abstract class and must be defined in concrete
subclasses, ensuring a specific behavior.
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How to Respond: Describe that Java achieves multiple inheritance through interfaces, which
allow a class to implement multiple interfaces, inheriting their abstract methods.
Sample Answer: Java accomplishes multiple inheritance through interfaces, which are collections
of abstract methods. A class can implement multiple interfaces, inheriting their abstract methods
and defining its behavior, facilitating flexibility in class design.
Sample Answer: The 'super' keyword in Java grants access to superclass members and allows
the invocation of superclass constructors. For instance, you can use 'super.methodName()' to call
a superclass method or 'super(parameters)' to invoke a superclass constructor, enabling
customization in subclass behavior.
Sample Answer: In Java, the 'final' keyword serves to make classes, methods, and variables
unmodifiable. Final classes cannot be extended, final methods cannot be overridden, and final
variables cannot be reassigned. This promotes code security, enhances performance, and
enforces constant values.
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How to Respond: Discuss the 'static' keyword's usage in Java to create class-level members and
its implications on methods and variables. Highlight its role in memory efficiency and shareable
resources.
Sample Answer: The 'static' keyword in Java is employed to create class-level members shared
among all instances. Static methods and variables belong to the class, not instances, reducing
memory consumption and enabling resource sharing. Static methods can be invoked without
creating objects, simplifying utility functions.
Sample Answer: Inner classes in Java are classes defined within another class, encapsulating
related behavior. They improve code organization by grouping related classes together. For
example, you can have an inner class for handling specific functionality within a larger class,
promoting modularity.
Sample Answer: Serialization in Java is the process of converting objects into byte streams for
storage or transmission. It allows objects to be saved to files or sent over networks. For example,
serialization is crucial in maintaining the state of an object in a distributed system or saving data
for future retrieval.
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How to Respond: Explain the Singleton Design Pattern, which guarantees the creation of only
one instance of a class. Describe its implementation and its importance in scenarios where a
single instance is critical.
Sample Answer: The Singleton Design Pattern in Java ensures that only one instance of a class
is created. It is implemented by providing a static method to access the instance, creating the
instance lazily, and guarding against multiple instantiations. Singleton is valuable when precisely
one instance is required, such as managing a global configuration or resource pool.
Sample Answer: Garbage collection in Java is a memory management process that automatically
reclaims memory occupied by objects no longer in use. It employs algorithms like the
generational garbage collection to efficiently identify and dispose of unreferenced objects.
Garbage collection enhances program reliability and reduces memory leaks, but it's crucial to
understand its effects on performance.
Sample Answer: Reflection in Java enables the inspection and modification of class behavior at
runtime. You can use reflection to access class fields, methods, and constructors dynamically. It's
instrumental in scenarios like dynamic class loading, examining class attributes, and building
generic utilities. However, it should be employed with care, as it may impact code maintainability
and performance.
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Question 13: What Are 'Annotations' in Java, and How Do
They Simplify Code Documentation and Configuration?
How to Respond: Introduce annotations as a way to add metadata to classes, methods, and
variables, simplifying code documentation and configuration. Discuss their role in Java
frameworks and libraries.
Sample Answer: Annotations in Java are metadata added to classes, methods, and variables.
They streamline code documentation and configuration, promoting cleaner and more readable
code. Annotations are widely used in Java frameworks like Spring and Hibernate to define
configurations and behavior, reducing the need for extensive XML or property files.
Question 14: Explain the 'Enum' Type in Java and Its Use in
Defining a Fixed Set of Constants.
How to Respond: Describe enums in Java as a special data type used to define a fixed set of
constants. Explain their benefits in enhancing code clarity and robustness.
Sample Answer: Enumerations (enums) in Java are a unique data type for defining a set of
constants with fixed values. They improve code clarity by providing a concise way to represent a
predefined set of options. Enums are commonly employed to handle situations where a variable
should have a specific set of values, such as days of the week, error codes, or states of an object.
Sample Answer: Generics in Java allow the creation of reusable code by introducing type
parameters. They enable the development of classes, interfaces, and methods that work with
various data types while maintaining type safety. Generics enhance code reusability, reducing the
need for repetitive code for different data types.
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Question 16: Describe the 'JDBC' API in Java and Its Role in
Connecting to Databases.
How to Respond: Explain the Java Database Connectivity (JDBC) API as a vital component for
database interaction in Java. Discuss how it establishes database connections, sends SQL
queries, and retrieves results.
Sample Answer: The Java Database Connectivity (JDBC) API is a cornerstone for database
interaction in Java. It facilitates connecting to databases, executing SQL queries, and retrieving
results. JDBC enables applications to communicate with databases, making it an essential tool for
data-driven applications.
Sample Answer: Serialization in Java refers to the process of converting objects into byte
streams for storage or transmission. Deserialization is the reverse process, reassembling objects
from byte streams. Serialization is useful for storing object states in files, databases, or sending
them over the network. Deserialization reconstitutes objects from stored data, restoring their
state.
Sample Answer: Lambda expressions in Java 8 simplify writing concise and readable code for
functional interfaces. They allow the replacement of anonymous inner classes with compact
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syntax. For instance, you can use lambda expressions to define behavior for functional interfaces
like Runnable or Comparator, promoting cleaner and more maintainable code.
Sample Answer: Concurrency in Java entails executing multiple tasks simultaneously. Threads
are the fundamental units enabling concurrency. They represent individual execution paths within
a program, allowing different parts of the application to run concurrently. Threads are valuable in
scenarios where tasks can be performed independently, promoting performance and
responsiveness in applications.
Sample Answer: Thread synchronization in Java involves coordinating thread access to shared
resources to prevent race conditions and data corruption. It ensures that only one thread can
access a synchronized block or object at a time, maintaining data consistency. Synchronized
blocks and locks are used to implement synchronization, ensuring safe multi-threaded
operations.
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Sample Answer: Exception handling in Java is the practice of managing runtime errors. 'try-catch'
blocks are used to catch exceptions and handle them gracefully. The 'try' block contains code
that may throw exceptions, while the 'catch' block handles and responds to exceptions. Effective
exception handling ensures that an application can recover from errors without crashing.
Sample Answer: Annotations in Java serve as a way to add metadata to code, simplifying
documentation and configuration. They eliminate the need for extensive XML or property files
and are widely used in Java frameworks and libraries. Annotations provide a cleaner and more
readable approach to specifying configurations and behavior, enhancing code clarity.
Sample Answer: Exception chaining in Java involves wrapping one exception with another to
maintain detailed information about the issue. This is valuable for error reporting and debugging,
as it helps identify the root cause of problems. Exception chaining allows developers to track and
address issues effectively.
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Sample Answer: JVM tuning refers to the optimization of the Java Virtual Machine's configuration
to improve application performance. It involves adjusting parameters related to memory
management, garbage collection, and other runtime characteristics. Effective JVM tuning can
lead to better application responsiveness and resource utilization.
Sample Answer: Design patterns in Java are well-established solutions to common software
design problems. They offer templates for solving recurring issues and are instrumental in
promoting code reusability and maintainability. By applying design patterns, developers can
create efficient and standardized solutions to design challenges, streamlining development
processes and enhancing code quality.
These questions cover advanced Java OOPs concepts and their practical applications. Preparing
for these topics will undoubtedly make you a strong candidate in Java interviews.
Sample Answer:
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public String getName() {
return name;
this.name = name;
return age;
if (age >= 0) {
this.age = age;
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Sample Answer:
class Vehicle {
void start() {
System.out.println("Vehicle started.");
void drive() {
System.out.println("Car is driving.");
Sample Answer:
class Shape {
void draw() {
System.out.println("Drawing a shape.");
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}
@Override
void draw() {
System.out.println("Drawing a circle.");
Sample Answer:
class Parent {
void display() {
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System.out.println("Parent's value: " + super.value);
Sample Answer:
void color() {
Sample Answer:
class Calculator {
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int add(int a, int b) {
return a + b;
return a + b;
Sample Answer:
class Student {
String name;
Student(String name) {
this.name = name;
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How to Respond: Define polymorphism as the ability of objects to take on multiple forms.
Illustrate it with an example, such as method overriding.
Sample Answer:
class Animal {
void makeSound() {
void makeSound() {
System.out.println("Dog barks.");
Sample Answer:
class MathOperations {
return a + b;
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}
return a * b;
Sample Answer:
interface InterfaceA {
void methodA();
interface InterfaceB {
void methodB();
System.out.println("Method A implementation.");
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}
System.out.println("Method B implementation.");
Sample Answer:
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How to Respond: Clarify that interfaces define a contract for classes to implement without
providing implementation. Discuss their differences from classes and their role in achieving
multiple inheritance.
Sample Answer:
interface Shape {
void draw();
System.out.println("Drawing a circle.");
Sample Answer:
class Student {
String name;
Student(String name) {
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this.name = name;
Sample Answer:
enum Days {
Sample Answer:
class Animal {}
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Animal dog = new Dog();
System.out.println("It's a Dog.");
Sample Answer:
void defaultMethod() {}
Sample Answer:
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class Student {
String name;
return name.equals(student.name);
Sample Answer:
class Student {
String name;
return Objects.hash(name);
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Question 19: What is the 'superclass' and 'subclass'
relationship in Java, and why is it significant in inheritance?
How to Respond: Define superclass and subclass relationships as the basis of inheritance.
Explain how subclasses inherit properties and behaviors from their superclass.
Sample Answer:
class Vehicle {
void start() {
System.out.println("Vehicle started.");
void drive() {
System.out.println("Car is driving.");
Sample Answer:
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// Class contents
Sample Answer:
result += num;
return this;
result -= num;
return this;
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How to Respond: Describe composition as the inclusion of one class within another to create a
complex object. Offer an example to show how it's used for building relationships between
objects.
Sample Answer:
class Engine {
void start() {
System.out.println("Engine started.");
class Car {
void start() {
engine.start();
System.out.println("Car started.");
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Sample Answer:
class Person {
String name;
int age;
return "Person{" +
'}';
Sample Answer:
class StaticExample {
static {
value = 42;
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}
Sample Answer:
import java.util.List;
import java.util.stream.Collectors;
.map(String::toUpperCase)
.collect(Collectors.toList());
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