Should Retrieval Methods Return Null or Throw Exceptions for Missing Data?

Should Retrieval Methods Return Null or Exceptions for Missing Values?

When designing a retrieval method, you encounter the dilemma of how to handle the absence of a return value. Two common approaches include returning null or throwing an exception.

Returning Null

By returning null, you indicate that the retrieval method did not find a valid value. This strategy is suitable when:

• The absence of a value is an expected outcome and part of the normal application logic.
• The caller can easily handle missing values by checking for null or using optional types.
• Consistency with other parts of the code that use null to represent absent values is maintained.

Throwing an Exception

Throwing an exception conveys that a missing value represents a problem or error. Consider this approach when:

• The missing value should not occur under normal circumstances and indicates an issue in the underlying logic or data source.
• It is crucial that the caller knows about the missing value to take appropriate action.
• The method signature clearly indicates the possibility of an exception, allowing callers to handle it gracefully.

Best Practice

The optimal approach depends on the specific scenario and requirements of the application. However, here are some guidelines:

• If the missing value is a valid outcome, returning null is preferred.
• If the missing value signifies an error, throwing an exception is appropriate.
• Consistency in handling missing values throughout the codebase is essential to avoid potential confusion.

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