Java - LinkedList Methods Part 5: Utility Methods

Utility methods like size(), contains(), and toArray() offer additional functionality for LinkedList.

Examples and Explanation

Finding the Size

System.out.println("Size: " + list.size()); // Output: Size: 3

Explanation: Quickly retrieve the number of elements in the list.

Checking for an Element

System.out.println(list.contains("Apple")); // Output: true

Explanation: Checks if a specific element exists in the list.

Converting to an Array

String[] array = list.toArray(new String[0]);

System.out.println(Arrays.toString(array)); // Output: [Apple, Date, Fig]

Explanation: Converts the list to an array, useful for compatibility with array-based APIs.

Cloning the List

LinkedList<String> clone = (LinkedList<String>) list.clone();

System.out.println(clone); // Output: [Apple, Date, Fig]

Explanation: Creates a shallow copy of the list.

Reversing the List

Collections.reverse(list);

System.out.println(list); // Output: [Fig, Date, Apple]

Explanation: Reverses the order of elements, useful for certain algorithms.

Conclusion

The LinkedList class in Java is a versatile data structure that supports dynamic element manipulation, making it ideal for various applications. Understanding its methods for adding, accessing, removing, iterating, and utility operations empowers developers to build efficient and maintainable code.