Reference values
Description
A reference points to an object.
Explanation
A reference can also be null when it points to no object.
Example
String name = "Aditi";← Chapter 2 — Core Syntax & Data
8. Non-Primitive Types & Strings
mixed
Description
Non-primitive values are objects or references to objects. Strings, arrays, classes, and interfaces are common examples.
A String represents text and offers useful methods. Unlike a primitive, it can refer to an object and has behavior such as length and substring.
Subtopics
String methods
Description
Strings provide operations for text.
Explanation
String objects are immutable, so methods return new strings.
Example
int letters = name.length();Explanation
A String is written with double quotes. Because strings are objects, compare their text with equals rather than ==, which compares references.
Example
public class StringTypeDemo {
public static void main(String[] args) {
String learner = "Aditi";
System.out.println(learner.length());
}
}Key points
- Strings are objects, not primitives.
- References can point to objects.
- Use equals to compare string content.