How To Read User Input: Scanner Class In Java
Interacting with users is a common requirement in many applications, and Java provides a powerful tool to accomplish this – the Scanner class.
So, let's learn how to read user input using the Scanner class in Java!
The Scanner class is part of the Java standard library and allows us to read input from various sources, including the keyboard. To utilize this class, we need to follow a few simple steps. Let's get started!
Element 1: Importing the Scanner Class
First, we need to import the Scanner class into our Java program using the import statement. This enables us to access its functionalities and methods. Here's an example:
Element 2: Creating an Instance of Scanner
Next, we create an instance of the Scanner class to start reading user input. We can create the instance by using the new keyword and assigning it to a variable. Here's an example:
Element 3: Reading Different Data Types
The Scanner class provides various methods to read input of different data types, such as integers, floating-point numbers, and strings. Let's see some examples:
Reading an integer:
Reading a floating-point number:
Reading a string:
Element 4: Handling User Input
When reading user input, it's important to handle potential issues or errors. The Scanner class provides methods like hasNextLine() and hasNextInt() to check if the input matches the expected data type. We can also utilize exception handling to gracefully handle any unexpected input. Here's an example:
By following these steps and utilizing the appropriate methods, you can create interactive programs that respond to user input.