BD Unit 1 Sprint 1 - Java Basics

Course Overview

Welcome to Backend Development Unit 1 Sprint 1! In this sprint, you'll learn the foundations of Java programming, including command-line and IDE basics, Git, variables, console output, arithmetic operations, strings, user input, and comments.

What You'll Learn

This sprint focuses on building your foundation in Java development. By the end of this sprint, you'll be able to:

  • Navigate through your computer's file system using command-line tools
  • Work efficiently with IntelliJ IDEA, a professional Java IDE
  • Track and manage your code changes using Git version control
  • Write and execute basic Java programs
  • Work with variables, data types, and perform calculations
  • Manipulate strings and collect user input
  • Document your code with proper comments

Why These Skills Matter

These fundamental skills are the building blocks of your journey as a backend developer. Command-line proficiency, version control with Git, and basic Java programming will be used in every project you build. Mastering these concepts will give you the confidence and tools you need to tackle more complex programming challenges in future sprints.

Recommended Learning Path

  1. Start with Module 1 to learn how to navigate your computer and use your IDE
  2. Move to Module 2 to master Git for tracking your code changes
  3. Continue with Module 3 to learn about variables and basic operations in Java
  4. Complete Module 4 to understand strings, user input, and code documentation
  5. Participate in Code-Alongs to apply your knowledge in guided projects
  6. Test your skills with the Sprint Challenge

Module 1: Command-line and IDE Basics

Learn to navigate a command-line shell, iterate through an edit-build-test cycle locally, and develop code using an IDE.

Key Topics

  • Terminal navigation commands (pwd, ls, cd)
  • File operations (mkdir, touch, rm)
  • IntelliJ IDEA features and shortcuts
  • Project setup and structure
  • Building and running Java applications
View Module 1

Module 2: Git Basics

Understand version control system fundamentals and learn to use Git for tracking changes in your code.

Key Topics

  • Git repositories and workflows
  • Working with staging area and commits
  • Branching and merging strategies
  • Remote repositories with GitHub
  • Collaboration fundamentals
View Module 2

Module 3: Variables, Console Output, and Arithmetic Operations

Learn about variable declaration, initialization, console output, and performing arithmetic operations in Java.

Key Topics

  • Java primitive data types (int, double, boolean, etc.)
  • Variable declaration and initialization
  • Console output with System.out.println()
  • Arithmetic operators (+, -, *, /, %)
  • Type casting and precision

Sample Code

// Variable declaration
int age = 25;
double price = 19.99;
boolean isAvailable = true;

// Arithmetic operations
int sum = 10 + 5;
double result = (double) sum / 3;

// Console output
System.out.println("The result is: " + result);
View Module 3

Module 4: Strings, User Input, and Comments

Work with strings, gather user input, and document your code with comments.

Key Topics

  • Creating and manipulating strings
  • Common string methods (length(), substring(), toLowerCase())
  • Reading user input with Scanner
  • Single-line and multi-line comments
  • JavaDoc documentation

Sample Code

// String manipulation
String name = "Java Programming";
String lowercase = name.toLowerCase();
int length = name.length();

// User input
Scanner scanner = new Scanner(System.in);
System.out.print("Enter your name: ");
String userName = scanner.nextLine();
System.out.println("Hello, " + userName + "!");
View Module 4

Code-Alongs

Join us for interactive coding sessions where you'll build real-world applications alongside your instructors. These sessions will help you reinforce your learning and get hands-on experience with the concepts covered in the modules.

What to Expect

  • Live, instructor-led coding sessions
  • Practical application of module concepts
  • Problem-solving strategies and best practices
  • Q&A opportunities with experienced developers

Current Code-Alongs

  • JavaDoc, Variables and Arithmetic Operations - Apply your knowledge of basic Java syntax in a practical context
  • String Methods - Explore the power of Java's string manipulation capabilities
View Code-Alongs

Sprint Challenge

Test your knowledge and skills with this sprint challenge. You'll demonstrate your understanding of command-line tools, Git, variables, console output, arithmetic operations, strings, and more.

Challenge Overview

The sprint challenge will test your ability to:

  • Use Git to manage your code changes
  • Work with Java variables and data types
  • Perform calculations and manipulate strings
  • Collect and process user input
  • Apply proper code documentation

This challenge is designed to reinforce the concepts you've learned throughout the sprint and prepare you for more advanced topics in future units.

View Sprint Challenge

Additional Resources

Oracle Java Tutorials Baeldung Java Tutorials Git Documentation W3Schools Java Tutorial IntelliJ IDEA Guide Codecademy Java Course

Tips for Success

  • Practice regularly - Programming is a skill that improves with practice
  • Type code yourself - Don't just copy and paste examples
  • Debug methodically - When you encounter errors, approach them systematically
  • Collaborate - Discuss concepts with classmates to deepen your understanding
  • Ask questions - Don't hesitate to seek help when you're stuck
  • Review regularly - Revisit concepts to reinforce your learning