Proving that you stay up to date with Java’s New Features

Mastering a programming language is extremely important to being a relevant developer and performing well in your job. Studying for a certification is an excellent way to gain deeper knowledge on a subject, moving beyond the basics to acquire solid understanding.

Currently, a new Java version is released every six months. The latest Long-Term Support (LTS) version with an available certification exam is Java 21. Java continues to evolve, and by studying for the Java 21 certification, you will master the new features of the language.

Features of the Latest Java Versions

Java 21:

• Virtual Threads: A revolution in concurrent programming without the need for reactive programming. Virtual threads offer better scalability and performance, being lighter and more efficient than traditional platform threads.
• Pattern Matching for Switch: More readable syntax with pattern matching directly in switch statements.
• Record Patterns: Simplifies working with structured data by extending records for object deconstruction.

Java 17:

• Sealed Classes: Allows you to seal classes, specifying which other classes can extend them, increasing control over class hierarchies.

These features are not just cool, they represent a major evolution in the language, directly impacting productivity and code quality. They make applications more prepared for the future, more performant, more secure, and easier to maintain.

Refreshing your knowledge of Java’s core features

By studying for the certification, you will review various Java topics and become more efficient in them. There is always something new to learn or refresh, even in the features we use daily.

Exam Topics

• Handling Date, Time, Text, Numeric, and Boolean Values (including var type inference)
• Controlling Program Flow
• Using Object-Oriented Concepts in Java (including inheritance, class creation, nested classes, garbage collector, overloaded methods, varargs, sealed classes, and records)
• Handling Exceptions (including try/catch/finally, try-with-resources)
• Working with Arrays and Collections
• Working with Streams and Lambda expressions
• Packaging and Deploying Java Code (including modules)
• Managing Concurrent Code Execution (including platform and virtual threads)
• Using Java I/O API
• Implementing Localization

The Message You Send by Getting Certified

By passing the exam and earning the certification, you send a strong message not only to your company but to the entire market. You demonstrate that you were able to prepare for a significant amount of time to achieve a difficult goal, that you can focus and acquire the knowledge necessary to perform your job, and that you can handle the pressure of taking a timed exam. Additionally, you:

• Formally validate your knowledge of the latest Java features.
• Gain a competitive advantage in the job market.
• Show deep understanding of Java fundamentals and best practices.
• Receive international recognition of your expertise from Oracle.

Career Impact

Some of the expected benefits of obtaining a certification include increased chances of working on new and challenging projects, improving your reputation as a Java specialist, and building a strong foundation for professional growth, do you want it?.

Conclusion

I hope this article helped you realize that there might be gaps in your Java knowledge and has inspired you to improve your skills by studying for Java certification. Java is a continuously evolving language that remains highly relevant in the market even after 30 years and counting.