“javadoc” is a tool provided by Oracle’s Java Development Kit (JDK) that is used to automatically generate documentation for Java code in HTML format. This documentation typically includes descriptions of classes, interfaces, methods, fields, and other elements of the code, along with additional comments written by the developers.
Here’s a more detailed explanation of its functionalities:
- Documentation Generation: The primary purpose of javadoc is to generate API documentation from Java source code. Developers add specially formatted comments, known as “Javadoc comments,” directly in the source code to describe the purpose, usage, and behavior of classes, methods, fields, and other components. These comments start with /** and end with */.
- HTML Format: javadoc generates documentation in HTML format, making it easy to view and navigate using a web browser. The HTML documentation includes hyperlinks for easy navigation between classes, methods, and other elements. This format allows developers to quickly access relevant information about the API.
- Standard Tags: Javadoc comments can include standard tags such as @param, @return, @throws, and @see to provide additional information about method parameters, return values, exceptions, and related classes or methods. These tags help improve the clarity and usability of the generated documentation.
- Custom Tags: In addition to standard tags, developers can define custom tags using the @customtag notation to provide specific information or metadata about their code. These custom tags can be used to document application-specific conventions, requirements, or best practices.
- Integration with IDEs: Many Integrated Development Environments (IDEs), such as IntelliJ IDEA, Eclipse, and NetBeans, include built-in support for javadoc. Developers can generate and view Javadoc documentation directly within their IDEs, making it convenient to access documentation while writing or reviewing code.
- Versioning and Cross-Referencing: Javadoc supports versioning and cross-referencing of API documentation. Developers can generate documentation for different versions of their codebase and include cross-references to related classes, methods, or external resources. This helps developers understand the relationships and dependencies between different parts of the API.
- Accessibility and Usability: Generated Javadoc documentation is designed to be accessible and easy to navigate. It typically includes an overview of the package, class, or interface, followed by detailed descriptions of its members. Additionally, Javadoc documentation often includes examples, usage guidelines, and links to related resources to enhance its usability.
javadoc Command Examples
1. Generate documentation for Java source code and save the result in a directory:
# javadoc -d [path/to/directory/] [path/to/java_source_code]
2. Generate documentation with a specific encoding:
# javadoc -docencoding [UTF-8] [path/to/java_source_code]
3. Generate documentation excluding some packages:
# javadoc -exclude [package_list] [path/to/java_source_code]
Summary
In summary, javadoc is a valuable tool for Java developers, enabling them to automatically generate comprehensive API documentation from their source code. By documenting classes, methods, and other components with Javadoc comments, developers can improve the readability, usability, and maintainability of their codebases.