Static vs. Non-Static Methods in Java (Java Interview QA)

Learn the core differences between static and non-static methods in Java with real examples. Understand when and how to use them in your applications.

Introduction

In Java, you can define two types of methods:

• 🔹 Static methods — belong to the class.
• 🔸 Non-static methods — belong to an object (instance).

Let’s explore the differences with examples and when to use each.

Key Differences: Static vs Non-Static

1. Static Method Example

public class MathUtils {
    public static int add(int a, int b) {
        return a + b;
    }
}

Usage:

int sum = MathUtils.add(10, 5); // No need to create an object

💡 Static methods are great for utility functions like Math.pow(), Arrays.sort().

2. Non-Static Method Example

public class Person {
    private String name;

    public Person(String name) {
        this.name = name;
    }

    public void greet() {
        System.out.println("Hi, my…