What are the differences between optional types and null checks in programming?

What are the differences between optional types and null checks in programming?

Optional types allow variables to be null or have a value, while null checks ensure a variable is not null before use.

Can you give me an example of optional types in a programming language?

Sure! In TypeScript, you can define a variable as optional using a question mark: let name?: string;.

How do null checks work in languages like Java?

In Java, you can use an if statement to check if a variable is null: if (myVar != null) { ... }.

Which approach is better for handling null values?

It depends on the context. Optional types can simplify code, while null checks provide explicit control over null handling.