Should You Use @Override When Implementing an Interface Method in Java?

Should a method that implements an interface method be annotated with @Override?

In Java, the @Override annotation is used to indicate that a method is overriding a method in a superclass or implementing a method from an interface. Using this annotation promotes clarity and helps prevent errors, particularly when managing inheritance and polymorphism.

@Override
public void myInterfaceMethod() {
    // method implementation here
}

Causes

• Using @Override on methods that implement an interface helps identify errors if method signatures do not match the interface, effectively catching mistakes at compile time.
• It provides better readability and maintenance of code since it explicitly shows the relationship between the interface and the implementing class.

Solutions

• Always use @Override when you are implementing a method from an interface. This is considered good practice and helps maintain code integrity.
• Ensure that the method signature matches exactly with that defined in the interface to avoid compilation errors.

Mistake: Not using @Override when implementing an interface method, leading to potential confusion about method relationships.

Solution: Always use @Override to indicate that a method implements an interface.

Mistake: Incorrectly spelling the method name or mismatching parameters, resulting in a compile-time error.

Solution: Double-check the method signature against the interface definition.