How to Execute the Java Program

How to Execute the Java Program

To execute a Java program, follow these steps:

  1. Write the Java Code:
  • Create a file with a .java extension, e.g., MyProgram.java.
  • Ensure the class name matches the file name (case-sensitive) and includes a main method. Example:
    java public class MyProgram { public static void main(String[] args) { System.out.println("Hello, World!"); } }
  1. Install Java:
  • Ensure the Java Development Kit (JDK) is installed. Check by running java -version and javac -version in a terminal or command prompt.
  • If not installed, download and install the JDK from Oracle or use an open-source version like OpenJDK.
  1. Compile the Program:
  • Open a terminal or command prompt.
  • Navigate to the directory containing your .java file using cd path/to/directory.
  • Compile the code using the javac command:
    javac MyProgram.java
  • This generates a .class file (e.g., MyProgram.class) if there are no errors.
  1. Run the Program:
  • Execute the compiled program using the java command:
    java MyProgram
  • Note: Do not include the .class extension in the command.
  • The program’s output (e.g., Hello, World!) will appear in the terminal.
  1. Handle Errors (if any):
  • Compilation errors: Check the code for syntax issues (e.g., missing semicolons, incorrect class name).
  • Runtime errors: Ensure the class name matches the file name, and the .class file exists.
  • Environment issues: Verify the JDK is correctly installed and the JAVA_HOME environment variable is set if needed.
  1. Optional – Use an IDE:
  • Tools like IntelliJ IDEA, Eclipse, or VS Code simplify writing, compiling, and running Java programs with built-in buttons or commands (e.g., “Run” button).

If your program uses external libraries or packages, ensure they’re included in the classpath during compilation and execution (e.g., javac -cp . MyProgram.java and java -cp . MyProgram).