To write your first program in Java, follow these steps:

1. Set Up Your Environment

• Install Java Development Kit (JDK): Download and install the JDK from Oracle’s official site.
• Install an IDE (optional): You can use an Integrated Development Environment (IDE) like Eclipse, IntelliJ IDEA, or NetBeans. Alternatively, you can write Java programs in a simple text editor (like Notepad++) and compile them using the command line.

2. Create a Simple Java Program

Here’s a basic “Hello, World!” program to start with:

// This is your first Java program
public class HelloWorld {
    public static void main(String[] args) {
        // Prints "Hello, World!" to the console
        System.out.println("Hello, World!");
    }
}

3. Save the Program

• Save the file with the name HelloWorld.java. Make sure the file name matches the public class name (HelloWorld).

4. Compile the Program

If you’re using the command line, navigate to the directory where your HelloWorld.java file is saved and compile it using the javac command:

   javac HelloWorld.java

This will generate a HelloWorld.class file, which is the compiled bytecode.

5. Run the Program

After compiling, run the program using the java command:

   java HelloWorld

You should see the output:

   Hello, World!

Explanation of the Code

• public class HelloWorld: This defines a class named HelloWorld. In Java, every program must have at least one class.
• public static void main(String[] args): This is the entry point of any Java program. The main method is where your program starts executing.
• System.out.println("Hello, World!");: This prints the string “Hello, World!” to the console.

That’s your first Java program! From here, you can explore more complex concepts like variables, loops, methods, and classes.