How to Properly Use java.lang.Class Methods with Class.forName()?

Which method from java.lang.Class generates the appropriate input format for Class.forName()?

// Example of using Class.forName()
try {
    Class<?> clazz = Class.forName("com.example.MyClass");
} catch (ClassNotFoundException e) {
    // Handle exception if class not found
}

The method you need is the `getName()` method found in the `java.lang.Class` class. This method returns the fully qualified name of the class, which is necessary to properly use `Class.forName()`.

String className = MyClass.class.getName(); // Obtain the fully qualified name
try {
    Class<?> clazz = Class.forName(className); // Use the name with Class.forName()
} catch (ClassNotFoundException e) {
    e.printStackTrace();
    // Handle the exception
}

Causes

• Using an incorrect class name or package name in the argument for Class.forName() can lead to ClassNotFoundException.
• Failing to use the fully qualified name of a class that exists in a different package.

Solutions

• Use ClassName.class.getName() to obtain the fully qualified class name as a String that can be used in Class.forName().
• Ensure that the class you are trying to load is properly included in the classpath.

Mistake: Not using the fully qualified class name.

Solution: Always provide the full package name along with the class name.

Mistake: Assuming that a class is always in the default package.

Solution: Check the package declaration and use it in your Class.forName() call.