Is It a Bad Practice to Omit Breaks in Java Switch Statements When Using Return Inside Cases?

Is it considered bad practice to use return statements in Java switch statements without omitting breaks in each case?

private double translateSlider(int sliderVal) {
    switch (sliderVal) {
        case 0:
            return 1.0;
        case 1:
            return .9;
        case 2:
            return .8;
        case 3:
            return .7;
        case 4:
            return .6;
        default:
            return 1.0;
    }
}

Using return statements directly within switch cases in Java is syntactically valid, but it may not align with best practices regarding code readability and maintenance. This pattern can lead to confusion over flow control, especially for developers accustomed to the traditional use of break statements in switch constructs.

private double translateSlider(int sliderVal) {
    double result;
    switch (sliderVal) {
        case 0:
            result = 1.0;
            break;
        case 1:
            result = 0.9;
            break;
        case 2:
            result = 0.8;
            break;
        case 3:
            result = 0.7;
            break;
        case 4:
            result = 0.6;
            break;
        default:
            result = 1.0;
            break;
    }
    return result;
}

Causes

• The absence of break statements can lead to misunderstandings for those unfamiliar with the return logic in switch cases, as it goes against conventional programming idioms.
• Such usage could be considered unusual because, typically, switches are used for branching logic rather than immediate returns.

Solutions

• While the current implementation is efficient, consider using a local variable to store the result and return it after the switch. This can enhance readability and maintainability.
• Another option is to refactor the code into if-else statements for simplicity, especially if the logic is more straightforward in those terms.

Mistake: Not considering readability when using return statements in switch cases.

Solution: Evaluate whether using local variables to return values enhances the clarity of your code.

Mistake: Assuming that skipping breaks in switch cases is only a stylistic choice.

Solution: Understand that while it works, adhering to conventional practices may prevent confusion and increase maintainability.