Question

As a programmer are you suppose to have all methods of java API along with its implementation in your memory?
Like there are so many of them and even just for a single class in the library one can just look at the java documentation or the api?

Answer 1

I always use an IDE and all the methods are shown to me by the IDE. So, is this good or bad.

Answer 2

You do not have to memorize all of them, as you use them you will become more familiar. It is however a good idea to look at the API documentation to get a better idea of what is out there so when you start a programming project you do not have to guess at what potential methods you might need.

Answer 3

Thanks

Answer 4

There is nothing wrong with using an IDE. They are good tools, but it is good to at least be familiar with the most common methods and classes. I don't generally use an IDE for Java (although I have tried and liked Eclipse: http://www.eclipse.org/downloads/), so on the occassions where I find myself lacking the knowledge of an existing class I either a) create my own, or b) use Google to find and existing solution. I have also found a good number of great API and classes at Apache Commons: http://commons.apache.org/

Answer 5

Thanks