Quick Answer
Optional is a container that may or may not contain a value - avoids null and NullPointerException. Create: Optional.of(value), Optional.ofNullable(valueOrNull), Optional.empty(). Consume: orElse(default), orElseGet(supplier), orElseThrow(), ifPresent(consumer), map(), flatMap(), filter(). Return Optional from methods that might not have a value. Don't use Optional as fields or method parameters.
Answer
Optional prevents null references by wrapping values. Provides methods like isPresent(), orElse(), ifPresent(). Improves null-safety and reduces NullPointerExceptions.
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SugharaIQ Editorial Team
Verified Answer
This answer has been peer-reviewed by industry experts holding senior engineering roles to ensure technical accuracy and relevance for modern interview standards.
