When should I use static methods instead of instance methods?

When should I use static methods instead of instance methods?

Static methods are used when you don't need to access instance-specific data. They belong to the class itself.

Can you give me an example of a static method?

Sure! A common example is a utility function like Math.max(), which doesn't require an instance of a class.

What about instance methods? When should I use them?

Instance methods are used when you need to work with data specific to an instance of a class, like accessing instance variables.

So, if I have a class representing a car, would methods like start() and stop() be instance methods?

Exactly! Those methods operate on the specific instance of the car, so they should be instance methods.