After completing Basic Languages like C Programming, as a CS Student, when you move ahead to Complex Languages like Java, you must feel “Why Java is so Hard to Learn”.
It is not very uncommon that, as a beginner, you will find Java very difficult to understand, and there are many reasons behind that. In this article, we are going to analyze all those reasons one by one.
Also, we will provide some tips to make Java easy to learn. So, let us start our discussion.
TL;DR: Why Java Is So Hard To Learn
Aspect | Summary |
Complete Syntax | Java’s verbose structure, mandatory semicolons, curly braces, and multi-line setup make simple tasks harder for beginners compared to languages like Python. |
Strong Typing And OOP | Beginners struggle with strict data types and foundational OOP principles like inheritance, encapsulation, polymorphism, and abstraction. |
Ecosystem And Configuration | An extra learning burden gets added to understand JVM, JDK, JRE, and configuring tools like Maven, Gradle, IDEs, etc. |
Error Messages And Debugging | Java’s strict compiler, cryptic errors, and runtime issues like NullPointerException create frustration for new learners. |
Advanced Topics | One has to face steep learning curves while learning Concurrency, Garbage collection, and advanced frameworks like Spring and Hibernate. |
Top 10 Reasons Why Java Is So Hard To Learn:
Now, without wasting much more time, we will directly dive into the Core Topic of the article. In this section, we will discuss the potential reasons behind Java being a difficult language.
Here, we will discuss the Top 10 Reasons why Java is so hard to learn. Let’s check each of these reasons one by one in a detailed way.
1. Complex Syntax In Java:
The Syntax Complexity is one of the very first reasons why a beginner feels Java is hard to learn. Java is known for its Verbose Syntax, which makes learning Java Syntax difficult for a beginner.
public class Main
{
public static void main(String[] args)
{
System.out.println("CodingZap");
}
}
Suppose we want to print a simple statement in Java Programming, and to do so, we have to use the 7 Lines. Whether, for other programming languages like Python, this can be done with a single line.
Also, to write such a simple program in Java, we have to use Curly Braces, Semicolons, etc., in the proper places, which creates difficulties for the students who are learning Java for the first time.
2. Strongly Typed Nature:
Java is a Strongly Typed Programming Language, which means, at the time of Variable Declaration, we have to define the Data Type of the variable explicitly, which creates are new challenge for beginners.
int zap = 21; // Correct Value Assigned
int one = "Coding"; // Wrong Value Assigned
Whether we want to declare an Integer Value or a String Value, we have to define that at the very first stage. If we assign a String Value to an Integer Variable, it will bring an error.
So, assuming the variable and declaring the data type at the very beginning can be difficult for a newcomer.
3. Complexities With OOP Principles:
Java is an Object-Oriented Programming Language (OOP). So, when we learn Java, we must master the following OOP concepts to develop different applications.
- Encapsulation: The Encapsulation principle is used to protect data from Unauthorized Access.
- Inheritance: In the Inheritance principle, a Class can get properties of other classes without errors.
- Polymorphism: Based on Object Types, the methods can work differently in this principle.
- Abstraction: All the unnecessary details get hidden with the help of the Abstraction principle.
As a beginner who is not aware of the OOP Concept, he finds learning Java difficult. Also, OOP is very important for the future, so we can’t ignore such concepts. This makes learning Java more tedious.
4. Immediate Gratification Issues:
Another important reason behind feeling Java is hard to learn is the Immediate Gratification Problem. Java takes a Long Setup Time to provide a simple output to the programmer.
As a beginner who is learning any programming language like Java for the very first time, always look for an Instant Result. But unfortunately, in Java, results don’t come immediately.
So, in the early stages of learning, students feel the Java Language is discouraging and conclude by thinking that Java is very hard to learn.
5. Confusion With Java Ecosystem:
In the future, to develop any applications with Java Programming, it is necessary to understand its ecosystem. And it is the Java Ecosystems that make learning Java much more difficult.
The Java Ecosystem can be termed as a Maze that beginners find complex to understand. There are many sections in Java Ecosystems, like the following. Each of them is used for different purposes.
- JVM: During runtime, the Bytecode gets converted to Machine-Specific Instructions with the JVM.
- JDK: The JDK is the toolkit that helps to write and execute Java Programs with a compiler.
- JRE: JRE helps to execute the Precompiled Java Programs. It doesn’t help for Development Purposes.
6. Problematic Error Messages:
If we make any mistake in our Java Code, we receive an Error Message in the Java Compiler. Understanding such Error Messages is one of the biggest challenges while learning Java Programming.
In Java, the Error Messages are concise and to the point. Any Java Expert can easily identify the error in the code. But for a beginner, it is very problematic to find the line in the code where the problem occurred.
If the Error in the code is not fixed, the code will not run properly. Hence, performing proper Java Debugging appears as another challenge for a newcomer.
7. Transitional Problem From Theory To Practice:
The Transitional Problem from Theory to Practice is another big reason behind appearing Java is a difficult language. In most cases, students successfully understand the theory but fail to apply it practically.
After understanding the theory, when students come for Real-world Problem-Solving, they can understand the gap between Theoretical Knowledge and Practical Implementation.
This gap creates fear in Java Programming in their mind, which pushes them to conclude that Java is very hard to learn.
8. Memory Management Issues:
Memory Management is another reason why most student feels Java is very hard to learn. If the Memory is not correctly managed, then there will be Space-related Issues for new programs.
In Java, Memory Management is done automatically. However, we have to know “How and When” Memory Management is done to avoid Memory Leaks and Performance Issues.
If we write any program that puts an extra burden on Garbage Collection Algorithms, which are the backbones of the Memory Management Process, then the program will be considered inefficient and less performing.
9. Concurrency And Multi-Threading Complexities:
Java is required for implementing some Modern Applications where some Modern Technologies are used. When such modern and complex technologies combine with Java’s Verbose Syntax, it makes a deadly combination.
One of such Complex Technologies is Concurrency and Multi-Threading. As they are very important to learn, the student often starts learning them without clearing the basics, which brings more difficulties.
If you are a new developer, then you have to be patient while learning Synchronization, Thread Safety, Race Conditions, etc.
10. Complex Tools and Configuration Overhead:
When we are implementing any Java application, we have to integrate different IDEs with some complex tools like Maven, Gradle, etc. Configuration of such complex tools with Java adds another layer of complexity.
Along with the configurations, a beginner has to understand how such tools work together with any Java IDE to successfully deploy the application and get the output. The process is not as simple as it looks.
So, besides focusing on Programming and its Logic, a beginner has to fight with the configurational complexities that make learning Java hard.
Common Challenges Students Face in Java Programming
Every year, thousands of students enrol in Java coursework at various colleges and universities. While learning Java can be exciting, many students face roadblocks that make assignments feel impossible to tackle due to its complexity.
We receive a ton of requests for Java homework help every month. From these, we’ve identified four main reasons why students often find Java and its projects challenging.
They Face challenges while Debugging Complex Errors
Working on complex Java tasks can be an overwhelming experience. When students begin learning Java, errors like NullPointerExceptions or missing classes often leave them stuck for hours. Debugging Java’s strict syntax and runtime issues can feel both frustrating and time-consuming.
That’s where we step in. Our experts have resolved thousands of debugging issues and will not only fix your code but also teach you how to avoid these errors in the future.
Understanding Object-Oriented Programming (OOP)
When we tutor students at CodingZap, we often find that concepts like inheritance, polymorphism, and encapsulation in Java can confuse even the brightest minds. Sometimes, professors may struggle to explain these topics in a way that’s easy to grasp.
So, If you’re finding it hard to understand how these concepts apply to real-world scenarios, don’t worry, you’re not alone. We simplify OOP concepts with clear, practical examples, helping you build a solid foundation in Java.
Still need deeper understanding? Make learning Java easier with a personal tutor at CodingZap.
Tackling Advanced Java Frameworks
In your final semesters, you’re introduced to frameworks like Spring, Hibernate, and Maven. While these are some of the advanced frameworks, they come with a steep learning curve.
The configurations, annotations, and dependencies can be difficult to understand. When it’s time to work on your final year projects, you’re often required to implement both the backend and frontend using these frameworks, which can leave you feeling stuck.
Our team simplifies these frameworks by guiding you through each step, ensuring you can confidently use them in your assignments and future projects.
Balancing Multiple Responsibilities
Many students juggle classes, part-time jobs, and personal commitments, making it hard to find time for Java homework. It’s not just about solving the code, it’s about balancing your time. Hire CodingZap and let us take the weight off your shoulders. With CodingZap, you’ll receive timely, accurate solutions that free you up to focus on what matters most.
What Are the Domains Where Java Is Mainly Used?
After clearing the background & emergences of Java as a programming language, it is time to move ahead in our discussion. Before enlightening the reasons behind the difficulties in learning Java, we need to understand what are the domains where a Java Programmer works.
Some of the few domains following, where computer science students can work as Java Developers now or even in the future as the demand will increase with time.
Mobile App Development Domain:
For the mobile applications development process, the need for Java is increasing day by day. The Mobile developers write Java Code that will help to make an application for the Android Operating System. In this case, the Platform Independent Java helps a lot.
A Java Developer needs to write a Java Program in the Java Virtual Machine one time only. As Java has Cross Platform Capability, written Java Syntax will be executable in any compiling environment.
Web Development Domain:
The web development domain is a growing industry nowadays. Along with mobile applications, individuals like to use a lot of Web-based applications. The Java Framework that is Spring used for the Web Development process as it is lightweight & more adaptable than any other.
Also, Java comes with the Multi-Threading feature that helps to execute more operations at the same time. It helps in the Web Application servers & API deployment process. As Java follows the Object-Oriented Programming Language feature, the implementation of Web Applications becomes a cakewalk.
In the Web Development field, one of the greatest competitors of the Java programming is the JavaScript Language. Let us check some difficulty comparison between Java and JavaScript in Web Development.
Criteria | Java | JavaScript |
Learning Curve | Hard | Easy |
Syntax Style | Verbose | Flexible |
Use Case | Backend | Frontend |
Setup | Heavy | Light |
Speed | Moderate | Fast |
Cloud-Based Applications Development:
The multipurpose Java can be used for the development of Cloud Computing Applications as well. Not only the Cloud-based application, but Java is also used for the Big Data Analysis process. Java can be used for the development of different operating systems.
Windows, Linux, and macOS use Java as one of the major programming languages for running several applications. Java provides high-quality security to the applications that are developed with it. So, for developing any crucial application, Java developers use this amazing language.
Comparison Table Between Java And Other Programming Languages
After discussing all the points that can be the Potential Reasons behind making Java Hard to Learn, it is time to move ahead. In this section, we will compare Java with different programming languages.
Here, we will make a Comparison Table between Java and Other Programming Languages like Python, C, C++, etc., using different criteria like Syntax Type, OOP Presence, etc. So, let us check the following table.
Criteria | Java | Python | C++ | JavaScript | C |
Syntax Type | Verbose | Simple | Complex | Flexible | Strict |
Error Debugging | Manageable | Easy | Tricky | Quick | Tedious |
Presence Of OOP | Core | Optional | Core | Optional | Absent |
Community Support | Large | Massive | Large | Huge | Large |
Job Demand | High | High | Medium | High | Low |
Tooling Support | Rich | Mature | Mature | Versatile | Basic |
Completion Time (Beginner) | 3 – 4 Months | 1 – 2 Months | 4 – 5 Months | 2- 3 Months | 4 – 7 Months |
Where Can We Start Learning Java?
At the end of our topic, we hope you understood what we want to express regarding Java complexities. We will end our topic with a small note that will describe some organizations where you can study Java with or without any fees paid.
There are many online courses available that provide completion certificates, but you will not get your dream job with that certificate. There are mainly two ways are present to learn Java with the completion certificate that will help to get a job.
1. Coding Bootcamps:
The coding bootcamps are online platforms where you can attend daily classes and based on your knowledge you have to crack the examination. At the end of such courses, certificates are provided that reflect your strength in Java concepts.
Here, you will go through some concise curriculums that extend for a few months. Within this period, you will get ready to land your dream job.
After completion, you might get a chance to sit for the campus examinations by the organization. If you’re struggling with Java concepts and need personalized guidance, consider one-on-one Java tutoring with CodingZap experts to strengthen your understanding and confidence in Java programming.
2. Computer Science Degree Program:
Here, the traditional college degree program is offered. In this case, an individual needs to attend the classes regular basis & if your attendance is not above the threshold value, you might not get a chance to sit for the semester examination.
In this case, you have to attend the college for the long four years. At the end, you will get the completion certificate from your university. Here, the curriculum is long enough & you have to learn many irrelevant topics in your academic tenure.
If you want to know some more differences between the Coding Bootcamp and Computer Science Degree program, do check our article on Coding Bootcamp Vs Computer Science Degree. And pick up your most suitable way to become a Java expert.
Other than the Coding Boot camps and Computer Science degree programs, there are two ways present that will help to gain knowledge on Java language. But, the certificate that you will receive from here will not be a valuable one that will push your resume to get a job.
3. Online Courses:
There are a lot of online courses available on the internet. You can choose any of the websites and can enroll for a specific course. There are plenty of Java courses available on the internet. After successful completion of the course, you can get a completion certificate.
But, in many cases, the websites charge some amount to share the certificate with you. In that case, you will only receive the knowledge, but not any certificate without paying the amount. You can search for any completely free websites to get the certificate at the end.
4. Free Resources:
If you do not want to spend a lot of time with online courses, this might be a suitable option for you. There are a lot of free resources available on the internet for Java fundamental knowledge. You will find a good number of virtual books from many websites.
But in that case, you need to have a good knowledge of the course and curriculum. Then only you can search and read the necessary parts from the book. Also, from social sites, you can watch some videos on Java concepts to make your fundamental concepts ready.
What Are Some Of The Best Online Java Courses For Complete Beginners?
If you have chosen the Online Courses to learn Java Programming, then this section will help cut down on some workload. Here, we are going to list down some of the best online Java courses for complete beginners.
Let us check the following list, which will help you a lot to find the best course without searching.
Conclusion:
In the end, we can say that the answer to your query “Why Java Is So Hard” should be now cleared to you.
There is no way to determine the difficulty level of Java. As the difficulty level changes with the people’s perspective. You are assuming Java is a tough language, but the other one might not assume the same. It depends upon you, how you are looking & finding Java as a coding language.
In most cases, the unawareness of the basic Java concepts brings more fear in a student’s mind. So, you should start from the very basic topics. And keep in mind that you have infinite time to reach the advanced level. Don’t hurry to achieve your final goal within a few days or weeks.
