Calling a Void Method

Understanding Void Methods

A void method is a type of method that performs an action but does not return a value.
Void methods serve as a way for a programmer to pack a series of statements into a single, reusable package (the method itself).

Defining a Void Method

A void method is defined by using the word ‘void’ before the method name during its declaration.
For instance, a void method could be declared as: public void myMethod() {...}
Void methods may or may not mandate parameters.

Calling a Void Method

Calling a void method is done by simply stating its name followed by parentheses within the scope of its visibility.
For instance, calling a void method would look like: myMethod();
If the void method requires parameters, the parameters must be passed in the method call as follows: myMethod(parameter1, parameter2);
Void methods do not return a value, hence assigning the call to a variable or expecting a result would lead to an error.

Using Void Methods

Void methods are typically used to perform a function or action, such as updating variable values, printing out information, or performing an operation such as sorting or searching.
Since these methods don’t return a value, they are often used for their side effects, such as modifying the state of an object.
You can use them anywhere in your code where the performed action is needed - in control structures, in other methods, or in general program flow.

Methods Calling Syntax

Like non-void methods, to call a void method, you need an instance of the class (an object) in which the method is defined.
The syntax for calling a void method is object.MethodName(parameters); where parameters are the input values required by the method (if any).
The object used to call the method is also the one it will operate on and potentially alter.

Wrapping Up

The ability to create and use void methods is a critical skill in object-oriented programming. Void methods allow for meaningful organisation of code through encapsulation of functionality, enhancing code readability and maintainability.