What are the best practices for method overloading in Java?

What are the best practices for method overloading in Java?

Method overloading in Java allows multiple methods with the same name but different parameters. Best practices include using clear and descriptive method names, ensuring that overloaded methods have different parameter types or counts, and avoiding confusion with similar signatures.

Can you give me an example of method overloading?

Sure! For instance, you can have a method named add that adds two integers, and another add method that adds two double values. Here's a simple example:

public int add(int a, int b) {
    return a + b;
}

public double add(double a, double b) {
    return a + b;
}

What should I avoid when overloading methods?

Avoid overloading methods with the same parameter types and counts, as it can lead to ambiguity. Also, don't overload methods just for the sake of it; ensure that it improves code readability and usability.

How does method overloading differ from method overriding?

Method overloading is when multiple methods have the same name but different parameters within the same class, while method overriding is when a subclass provides a specific implementation of a method that is already defined in its superclass.