Java Eclipse Code Refactoring Shortcuts and Tips

This post describes some of the shortcuts and tips to refactoring a source code in Eclipse IDE with GIF images. We do refactoring most of the time when writing code. Thus, using shortcut keys or refactor menu can boost productivity.

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Below are some additional Eclipse-related articles you might like:

• How to Create a Simple Maven Project in Eclipse — In this article, we will show you how to create a simple Maven project in Eclipse IDE.
• How to Create a Web Project Using Maven in Eclipse — In this article, we will show you how to create a web project or application using Maven in the Eclipse IDE.
• How to Convert Java Project to Maven Project in Eclipse — In this article, we will show you how to create a Java project and convert it into the Maven project.

1. Eclipse Refactor — Extract Class

The 'Extract class...' refactoring (from Alt+Shift+T) extracts a group of fields into a separate class and replaces all occurrences to fit the new structure.

2. Eclipse Refactor — Extract Interface

Use the 'Extract interface...' refactoring technique to extract an interface out of a class (Alt-Shift-T to bring up menu).

3. Eclipse Refactor — Extract Superclass

If you want to extract part of a class into a superclass, use Alt+Shift+T to bring up the menu and select, as shown below. There are a lot of customization option available in the dialog!

4. Eclipse Refactor — Extract Method

Use this Alt + Shift + M shortcut with the Eclipse key to extract a selection to a method. This helps you move a selected block of code to a separate method with ease. For example:

5. Eclipse Refactor — Push Down

Ever wondered what 'Push down...' in the refactoring menu ( Alt+Shift+T) does? It moves methods and fields from a parent class to #all extenders. Quite handy!

6. Eclipse Refactor — Extract Local Variable

You can now declare a local variable's type as 'var' while extracting it using Alt+Shift+L (shortcut for Extract Local Variable refactoring).

7. Eclipse Refactor — Rename

Use the Alt + Shift + R shortcut to rename a variable, method, class, or even a package name. This is the most frequently used shortcut in code refactoring. Select the whole name of the class, method, or variable you want to rename and then press this shortcut:

8. Eclipse Refactor — Change Method Signature

Use the Alt + Shift + C Eclipse shortcut key to change the signature of a method. Place the cursor inside a method or select the method name, and then, press this shortcut. The Change Method Signature dialog appears. You can change various elements of method signature, such as access modifier, return type, parameters, exceptions, etc:

Happy coding!