How to Resolve 'java: <identifier> expected' Error in ArrayList?

What does the 'java: <identifier> expected' error mean while working with ArrayList in Java?

ArrayList<String> list = new ArrayList<>();
list.add("item");

The error message 'java: <identifier> expected' typically occurs during Java compilation when the compiler encounters a syntax issue, particularly related to variable or method declarations. This is often seen when dealing with data structures like ArrayList, where improper syntax can cause confusion for the compiler.

// Correct ArrayList declaration
ArrayList<String> list = new ArrayList<>();
list.add("item");

Causes

• Missing semicolon in a previous line of code.
• Improper ArrayList syntax, like using incorrect generic type declarations.
• Typing errors, such as an accidental space or missing identifier before the assignment.
• Using a reserved keyword as a variable name.

Solutions

• Ensure all statements end with a semicolon; check the lines before where the error is reported.
• Correct the generic type syntax when declaring an ArrayList, for example: 'ArrayList<Type> list = new ArrayList<Type>();'.
• Avoid using reserved keywords as identifiers.
• Double-check your code for any typographical errors.

Mistake: Forget to import the ArrayList class.

Solution: Add 'import java.util.ArrayList;' at the beginning of your Java file.

Mistake: Omitting the generic type when declaring an ArrayList.

Solution: Always include the type in ArrayList declaration, e.g. 'ArrayList<String> list = new ArrayList<>();'.

Mistake: Using a space within variable names.

Solution: Ensure variable names do not contain spaces; use underscores or camelCase instead.