how to create enum in java

What is enum in Java?

An enum is a special "data type" that used to create our own datatype like classes and It represents a group of constants (a variable that does not change).

The enum is short for "enumerations", which means "specifically listed" and the Enum data also known as Enumerated Data Type.

# Defining Java enum

Instead of C/C++, in java programming language enum types are more powerful. Here, we can define an enum both inside and enum outside the class but not inside a Method

"Rules" to defing enum in Java:

• To create an enum in Java, use the enum keyword (instead of class or interface), and separate the constants with a comma(,).

• The enum can be defined within or outside the class because it is similar to a class. The semicolon (;) at the end of the enum constants are optional

• Because enum are constants, the names of an enum type's fields are in uppercase letters.

Syntax :

• enum Directions { EAST, WEST, NORTH, SOUTH; }

•   OR

• enum Directions { EAST, WEST, NORTH, SOUTH }

# Access Java enum

You can access enum constants with the help of dot operator.

Syntax :

• Directions myVar = Directions.NORTH;

Let's see, the simple examples of enum Java :

1.) enum inside class

  ➤ Example 2: Defined enum inside class

1. class EnumExample {

2. //Defining the enum inside the class

3. enum Directions{

4.   EAST, WEST, NORTH, SOUTH

5. } //semicolon(;) is optional here

6. public static void main(String args[]) {

7.   Directions myvar= Directions.NORTH;

8.   System.out.println(myvar);

9. }

10. }

Output :

• NORTH