Step-By-Step Guide to Creating and Inserting a Java API in Eclipse

Eclipse is the most popular Java Integrated Development Environment (IDE). Just check out the survey result.

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Here is one more for you.

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Some people say that Eclipse is dying. However, we can see that many developers still prefer using Eclipse. Let’s get Eclipse popularity part out of the way and talk about how you can insert a Java API in Eclipse. You can do it quickly. But before getting to adding and creating API, I will educate about Java API for readers who do not have in-depth knowledge of Java API.

What is Java API?

The full form of API is Application Programming Interface (API). Java language comprises various syntax and semantics. The set of classes that are inside the Java Development Environment is known as Java API.

The classes in Java API is in Java language, and it runs via a Java Virtual Machine. You can find every single thing inside Java API, ranging from collection classes to GUI classes.

To get the most out of Java API, you need to have a firm grasp of Java programming language. Java is the most popular language in the world today, and huge corporations love Java due to its great documentation and security features.

If you want to land a project in Java, it is beneficial to undertake a Java Certification Training course that gives clear insights about various aspect of the language being a big plus for novice as well as tech professionals.

There are various levels in Java certification courses. You can slowly jump from one level to the another and learn as you go. You can write some codes on the side while going through the Java certification courses.

How to Create and Insert a Java API in Eclipse?

Now that you are aware of Java API, we can talk about the process of creating and inserting a Java API in Eclipse.

To create a great program without wasting much time, you need to work in a framework. If you are among the developers who are looking to develop your API via Eclipse, you are in the right place. I will show you a step-by-step guide to creating and inserting a Java API in Eclipse. All you need to do is systematically follow my instruction.

Project Creation

The first task is a project creation. Here are the steps:

  • Enter the current workspace inside Eclipse. It is better to create a new workspace to ensure that you do not mess your projects.
  • After the first step, you need to make a new Java Project and give whatever name you like. However, you should make sure that your name relates to your project.
  • After the project creation, you need to test if you can see your project in an explorer window or not. It is essential to make sure that it does not mess around with other projects.

Fresh Package and Class

  • Head to project explorer and right click your project. After selecting a new package, name it. It will act as the main class file.
  • Head to package, click new, and then select class under the source folder. Give a relevant name to the class. Make the class, public and do not make the main method stub in class.
  • After the completion of the first two steps, double-click your class file.

Time to Add Code and Export

  • You can now add some codes to your project. For now, create some random static methods that return something.
  • When you finish adding methods to your class, export it as a jar file. It is a simple process. Go to the project source folder and select Export. Then click on Java and select JAR file. Note down the export location, so that you will be able to access it later. You can then click on the Finish button and let the Eclipse do the rest for you.

Do the Testing

  • You are now all set to do some testing. Just create a project like in step number 1. Name it different this time around.
  • There is no need to export it because it is a test project. Instead of exporting, go with creating a package. Just create a new class and name it “test.” You can now inherit the public static void main method. Select the finish button after completing the process.
  • You will observe a class file with the primary method when you smash the finish button. In case you fail to see the class file, copy the code below.

Create a JAR for Building a Path

You are in the ending part of creating and inserting a Java API. You have a primary method ready. Now, you should add API to a build path of the new project.

  • Select your new project and then go to properties.
  • Select “Java Build Path” on the properties–>window.
  • Select Libraries after entering the “Java Build Path” in the properties menu.
  • Click on “Add External JARs..” and go to your API location and then select open.
  • Click the open button to finish the step number 5.

Time to Run your API

You are finally ready for a climax. You have now created your API. What to do next? Just implement your API and observe your computer screen. If there are errors, go through the article once again to see if you missed something along the way.

Over To You

Did you find it challenging to create and insert Java API to Eclipse? Hopefully not. It is so easy that you can finish the task of creating and adding Java API to Eclipse within 10-30 minutes. After the installation of Java API, you can complete your projects in a shorter period.

Remember, smart programmers not only work hard, but they work smart as well. Creating and inserting Java API to Eclipse is the first step to working smart. I hope you have found value in this article. If you have any confusions, feel free to comment below. I will be more than happy to assist you in your path to getting things done.