Why Favor Interfaces Over Concrete Classes in Java?

Why Should You Prefer Interfaces in Java Classes?

PMD raises a violation when a concrete implementation type like 'ArrayList' is used instead of an interface. This article explores the benefits of adhering to this guideline.

Advantages of Using Interfaces:

Using interfaces over concrete types enhances encapsulation and promotes loose coupling within your code. Encapsulation segregates implementation details, allowing for flexibility in changing the underlying implementation in the future. Loose coupling ensures that components are not tightly bound to specific implementations, making them more reusable and maintainable.

Benefits for Testing:

Interfaces facilitate mock testing using techniques like Mocking, where a mock implementation can be used to simulate behavior without relying on the actual implementation. This practice aids in isolating and testing specific functionalities without the burden of the entire implementation.

Best Practices:

Embracing the practice of using interfaces over implementations extends beyond PMD violations. When designing APIs, consider utilizing interfaces to make your code more extensible, testable, and adaptable to future changes.

An additional resource elaborating on this topic is provided for further reading. By adhering to this guideline, you can enhance the quality and maintainability of your Java code.

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