Introduction to Java Streams: Filtering, Mapping, and Reducing
In this article, we will explore Java Streams, a powerful feature introduced in Java 8 that provides a functional approach to working with sequences of elements, typically from collections. Streams allow you to process data in a declarative way, making operations like filtering, mapping, and reducing more concise and readable. We’ll explore key stream operations, how to use them effectively, and how they can improve the efficiency and clarity of your code.
1. What Are Java Streams?
A Stream in Java is a sequence of elements supporting sequential and parallel aggregate operations. Streams can be created from various data sources, such as collections, arrays, or I/O channels. Streams do not modify the underlying data structure but provide a functional approach to processing that data.
The main benefits of using streams are:
- Declarative style: Streams allow you to write code that focuses on what needs to be done, not how it should be done.
- Concise code: Operations like filtering, mapping, and reducing can be expressed in a more compact form.
- Parallel processing: Streams can be processed in parallel with minimal effort, leveraging multi-core processors.
2. Creating Streams
Streams can be created from collections, arrays, or I/O sources.
