Naming Rules for Variables
 

The names of variables in the Java language are referred to as identifiers.

Choosing a variable name:
The best naming convention is to choose a variable name that will tell the reader of the program what the variable represents. Variable names that describe the data stored at that particular memory location are called mnemonic variables.

For example, if you wish to store a grade on a test, a variable name such as grade would be more easily remembered than a variable name such as var2.

Rules for naming variables:
All variable names must begin with a letter of the alphabet, an underscore, or ( _ ), or a dollar sign ($). The convention is to always use a letter of the alphabet. The dollar sign and the underscore are discouraged.

After the first initial letter, variable names may also contain letters and the digits 0 to 9. No spaces or special characters are allowed.

The name can be of any length, but don't get carried away. Remember that you will have to type this name.

Uppercase characters are distinct from lowercase characters. Using ALL uppercase letters are primarily used to identify constant variables. Remember that variable names are case-sensitive.

You cannot use a java keyword (reserved word) for a variable name.

(c) Shilpa Sayura Foundation 2006-2017