day-22: Getter Methods in Java: Best Practices for Clean and Secure Code

Getter Method in Java (Simple Explanation)
A getter method is a public method that provides controlled read access to a private field in a class.

Why Use a Getter?
Encapsulation → Keeps fields (private) hidden but allows safe access.
Security → Prevents direct modification of sensitive data.
Flexibility → You can later add logic (e.g., formatting, validation) without breaking existing code.

Example: Getter for goldRate

public class SriKumaranTangaMaligai {
    private int goldRate = 5000;  // Private field (hidden)

    // Getter method (read-only access)
    public int getGoldRate() {
        return goldRate;  // Returns the value of goldRate
    }
}

How to Use the Getter?

public class User {
    public static void main(String[] args) {
        SriKumaranTangaMaligai shop = new SriKumaranTangaMaligai();

        // Access goldRate via getter (not directly)
        System.out.println("Gold Rate: ₹" + shop.getGoldRate());  
    }
}

Key Points
✔ Naming Convention: Getters start with get + FieldName (e.g., getGoldRate).
✔ Return Type: Matches the field’s type (int, String, etc.).
✔ No Parameters: Getters only return values (no arguments).

Getter vs. Direct Public Access
Approach Pros Cons
Getter (getGoldRate()) Safe, controlled, future-proof Slightly more code
Public Field (goldRate) Shorter, faster No validation, breaks encapsulation

When to Avoid Getters?
In high-performance code where direct access is critical.
For simple data containers (use Java record instead)