How To Call A Method In Java

Whether you’re new to the world of coding or you’re just trying to get your head around the Java platform, one way that you can create a block of code that can perform a specific function or action when called to do so is a method.

The only question is, how do you call a method in Java, exactly?

Even to the most experienced, coding can sometimes get a little confusing.

So, to make sure that you are able to do this successfully without any missteps, in this article, we are going to be showing you how you can call a method in Java.

Whenever you’re ready, let’s dive right into it. 

What Is A Method In Java?

Before we jump into how to call a method in Java, we first think that it would be good to explain what a method is – especially if you are just getting started with programming.

Essentially, a method is also referred to as a “function” in a block of code that can input data as parameters and then return an output if actioned to do so.

Essentially, a method is a type of code that will only act/run when it is called to do so. 

To follow on, you can choose to pass data, which are also known as parameters, into a method (block of code) to be able to then create a method that can perform a certain action or function.

The only way that a method will work is if it is “called” to do so by you or another programmer.

More specifically, when it comes to Java programming, a method can only be made, created, and called if it is inside a class. This brings us to our next section.

How To Call A Method In Java: Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that we have briefly explained what a method is, we are now going to be talking you through how you can go about calling a method in Java programming. Let’s take a look:

Step One: Choose The Class Access For Your Chosen Method: 

First things first, you are going to need to declare the class access for your chosen method.

In order to be able to do that, you are going to need to choose whether you want the method to be either public, private, or protected. Here is a breakdown of the three if you are not overly aware:

• Public: The first access option you can choose from is public, which means that the method will be able to be called from anywhere with no restrictions.
• Private: Another option that you have to choose from is private, which means that only classes within the same package of code can call the method. This option is sometimes also referred to as being package-private.
• Protected: Along with public and private, the last option that you have to choose from is protected. This particular access option means that the method can only be called if it’s inside its class exclusively. 

Step Two: Declare The Class The Method Belongs To

The next thing that you are going to need to do is to declare what class the method belongs to.

This will typically be the second keyword in your block of code. Typically, the class that you will list the method as belonging to as Static, as static methods are the most common methods used within Java.

If you’re not already aware, static methods are a method that belongs specifically to the class and not an object/function of the class.

So, to provide you of an example of how you will need to declare the class that your method belongs to, it will need to look a little something like this: “Class Choice. Chosen Method()”. 

Keep in mind that if you will not be making a static method, then the only alternative left to you will be to use an object of the class.

With that being said, if your class was named “JavaObject” and it was specifically designed to create a function within a class, then you could alternatively make and call a method by using “JavaObject obj = new JavaObject()” and then using the following block of code example to name the method that you will use to call for the action to be taken “obj.JavaObject().”

Step Three: Declare The Method’s Name

Once you have established what the call is going to invoke, you are then going to need to name your method so that you are going to be able to call it.

If you do not call it, you aren’t going to be able to use it. To name it, simply type the name of your choice and enclose it with parentheses. 

Step Four: Call The Method

After you have done all of the above, you will then be able to begin calling the method in Java as and when you might need to.

In order to do this, simply type in the name followed by a closed parenthesis in order to action the method.

Final Thoughts

There we have it! Now that you have read through the guide above, we are hoping that we have been able to help clear up any confusion that you might have had about calling a method in Java.

Ultimately, the process of calling a user-created method in Java is pretty simple, although many coders can find the syntax a little confusing to get their head around at first.

However, by making sure that you are following the guidance and instructions that we have shared above, you should find that you are able to create your specific set of instructions that will come into action when you or another calls it.

Why don’t you consider saving this page? That way, if you ever needed to come back and refresh your knowledge of how to call a method, you will know exactly where to find us. Thank you for reading!