Walking into a Java interview, you might expect questions about loops, inheritance, or data types. But what really sets candidates apart is how they handle the tricky Java interview questions—the ones that test whether you truly understand how Java works under the hood.
This list covers some of the most commonly asked tricky questions, along with the reasoning you need to answer them confidently.
Short Answer: No.
Why: Static methods are bound at compile time, while overriding is resolved at runtime. If you declare the same static method in a subclass, you’re hiding it, not overriding it.
Short Answer: To ensure security, caching efficiency, and thread safety.
Example: If strings were mutable, malicious code could alter values like database credentials after they’re created.
Key Difference:
== checks reference equality.
.equals() checks content equality.
Example:
String a = "Java";
String b = new String("Java");
System.out.println(a == b); // false
System.out.println(a.equals(b)); // true
No for all three:
final – Constructors aren’t inherited.
static – They initialize objects, not classes.
abstract – Constructors can’t be overridden.
final – Restricts variable, method, or class changes.
finally – Code block that runs after try/catch.
finalize() – Called before garbage collection (deprecated in recent Java versions).
A return in finally will override values from try or catch. It’s legal but dangerous—best avoided.
Only one public class is allowed per .java file, and its name must match the file name.
HashMap – Not synchronized, allows one null key.
Hashtable – Synchronized, no null keys or values.
Avoid direct equality checks because of precision issues. Use:
if (Math.abs(a - b) < 0.0001) { ... }
No. Interfaces can’t be instantiated, so they don’t have constructors.
Think aloud so the interviewer understands your reasoning.
Support answers with examples—even small code snippets help.
Be honest if you’re unsure, then explain related concepts you do know.
Revise Java fundamentals regularly.
Go through real-life Java interview questions from online forums.
Practice small code exercises to internalize tricky rules.
Final Word:
Tricky Java interview questions are less about memorization and more about problem-solving. If you can explain the “why” behind your answers, you’ll make a strong impression.