Java Annotations
Java Annotations are a form of metadata that provide data about a program but do not directly affect its execution. Introduced in Java 5, they are used to add information to Java code elements like classes, methods, and fields, enabling features such as code analysis, documentation, and runtime behavior modification. They are processed by tools like compilers, frameworks, and libraries to automate tasks and reduce boilerplate code.
Developers should learn Java Annotations to enhance code readability, maintainability, and reduce boilerplate in Java applications, especially when using frameworks like Spring, Hibernate, or JUnit. They are essential for implementing dependency injection, ORM mapping, and unit testing, as annotations simplify configuration and enable declarative programming patterns in enterprise and web development.