Java @Override: Key Points to Remember

In Java, the @Override annotation is used to indicate that a method has been overridden. When a method is marked with @Override, the compiler checks if the method actually overrides a method in the parent class. If it does not override a method, the compiler will show an error.

When using the @override annotation, it is important to keep in mind the following points:

1. Methods in a superclass must be visible. If the method in the superclass is private, final, or static, it cannot be overridden by a subclass, causing a compilation error when using the @Override annotation.
2. The method name, parameter list, and return type must be exactly the same as the method in the parent class when overriding a method, otherwise the compiler will throw an error.
3. Subclass methods cannot throw more exceptions than superclass methods. When a subclass overrides a superclass method, it cannot throw more or broader exceptions than the superclass method; it can throw the same or narrower exceptions, or not throw any exception.
4. The annotation serves as a hint for the compiler. The @Override annotation simply serves as a hint to the compiler, telling it to check whether the method does indeed override a method in the parent class. If the subclass method does not correctly override the parent class method, the compiler will issue a warning. However, even without using the @Override annotation, a method can still be successfully marked as an override.
5. Using the @Override annotation can improve the readability of the code by clearly indicating that this method is overriding a method from the parent class, thereby enhancing the readability and maintainability of the code.

In summary, when using the @Override annotation, make sure the parent class method is visible, the method name, parameter list, and return type are consistent, no additional exceptions are thrown, and remember that the annotation is just a hint for the compiler.