Class Variables --

[Justin Simpson]

I got a nitpick about using a class variable when I could be using one declared within a method ( if you understand ? ). Is this a preference thing or is there some important point that I am missing ?

Am I right to say that a method variable will only persist while the method is being invoked while a class variable will hang around until the class is no longer needed ?
[ July 19, 2004: Message edited by: Justin Simpson ]

[Marilyn de Queiroz]

The key is that class variables are to be used as attributes for a class. If there is no intention to instantiate the class, there is no need for attributes.

Here is a discussion of the same issue. Although the student was on a different assignment at the time, the concepts are the same.

A local (method) variable persists until the method is exited. A class (static) variable persists until the JVM unloads the class (usually when the JVM is shut down). An object member variable persists until it is garbage collected.
[ July 19, 2004: Message edited by: Marilyn de Queiroz ]

[Justin Simpson]

Thanks Marilyn