New Keyword in AP Computer Science A

Definition

The new keyword is used in Java to create an instance (object) of a class. It allocates memory for the object and initializes its attributes using the constructor method.

Related terms

Constructor:

A constructor is a special method within a class that is used to initialize objects when they are created using the new keyword.

Instance Variable:

An instance variable is a variable declared within a class but outside any method. Each instance/object of that class has its own copy of these variables.

Reference Variable:

A reference variable holds the memory address/reference of an object rather than the actual object itself. It allows us to access and manipulate objects indirectly.