How to Fix the Checkstyle Error: At-clause Should Have a Non-Empty Description in Java

What steps should I take to fix the Checkstyle error indicating that the At-clause must have a non-empty description in a Java project?

/**
 * This is a sample method.
 * 
 * @param param This is a parameter.
 * @throws Exception This is an exception.
 * @author Author Name
 * @see SomeOtherClass
 */
public void sampleMethod(String param) throws Exception {
    // Method implementation here
}

The Checkstyle error message 'At-clause should have a non-empty description' typically occurs when Java documentation comments (Javadoc) do not include a valid description for the tags that are used. Javadoc is an essential part of Java programming, providing clarity and understanding of the code. To resolve this issue, you need to ensure that every 'At-clause' (such as @param, @throws, etc.) in your Javadoc comment contains a clear and informative description.

/**
 * This method performs an action based on the provided input parameter.
 * 
 * @param input The input value that determines the action to be performed.
 * @throws IllegalArgumentException if input is null or invalid.
 */
public void performAction(String input) throws IllegalArgumentException {
    // Method implementation here
}

Causes

• Missing description for 'At-clause' tags in Javadoc comments.
• Using Javadoc tags without content, such as @param or @throws.

Solutions

• Review all Javadoc comments in your code and ensure that each 'At-clause' has a complete and meaningful description.
• Update your Javadoc syntax by providing valid descriptions for each parameter and exception.
• Run Checkstyle again after making these changes to confirm that the error has been resolved.

Mistake: Leaving the description empty for Javadoc tags.

Solution: Always provide a detailed description for each Javadoc tag used.

Mistake: Using incorrect Javadoc formatting.

Solution: Ensure that your Javadoc comments start with /** and end with */.

Mistake: Omitting essential Javadoc tags.

Solution: Include necessary tags like @param, @return, and @throws where relevant.