Which JSP Content Inclusion Method Should You Choose: Directive, Action, or Tag Files?

Including Content in JSP: Directive vs. Action vs. Tag Files

When templating with JSP, there are several methods to include external content:

1. JSP Include Directive

<%@ include file="foo.html" %>

This directive statically includes content from a file during translation time, rendering it suitable for static layout templates like headers.

2. JSP Include Action

<jsp:include page="foo.html" />

Unlike the directive, this action dynamically includes content at request time. It is designed for dynamic content originating from JSPs.

3. JSP Tag Files

Tag files provide an indirect method for content reuse through custom tags. They are source files containing JSP code that can be called as reusable tags. They:

• Allow customization through attributes
• Pass variables back to the calling page
• Access JSP objects
• Communicate with each other

Edit: Comparison to Includes

The example provided in your edit may seem similar to using an include. However, custom tags have additional features, including:

• Nesting and communication via private variables

When to Use Each Method

• Use tag files for encapsulating reusable content.
• Use the include directive for static content that rarely changes.
• Use the include action for dynamic content that changes often when the main page is requested.

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