When should I use private methods in programming?

When should I use private methods in programming?

Private methods are used to encapsulate functionality that should not be exposed outside of a class. They help maintain a clean interface.

Can you give me an example of when to use them?

Sure! If you have a method that performs a calculation only needed by other methods in the same class, make it private.

What are the benefits of using private methods?

Benefits include improved encapsulation, reduced complexity, and easier maintenance of your code.

Are there any downsides to using private methods?

One downside is that it can make unit testing more challenging, as private methods can't be accessed directly from tests.