How do you refactor code using a Java web development IDE?

IDEs come in all shapes and sizes. Paid versions tend to offer more functionality and support than the free counterparts. Additionally you can use SonarQube to help with some basic refactoring but the main work has to be still done in the developers head: - maybe this method is too long and complex, I can split this into 2 or more methods that have a single responsibility (some IDEs support "extract method"); - this variable/method name is not expressing what it holds, I'll just rename (most IDEs support the "rename method/variable") - variable is not used, I'll just remove the variable or even the entire line if the method invocation doesn't make sense without the return value (most IDEs support "unused variable" highlight)

Refactoring code in a Java web development IDE involves steps like renaming variables, extracting methods or classes, organizing imports, applying design patterns, formatting code, and eliminating duplication. Use the IDE's automated tools for consistency. Ensure unit tests, update documentation, and leverage version control (e.g., Git). Optimize queries, manage dependencies, and conduct code reviews. Monitor performance with profiling tools, integrate continuous integration, and make small, incremental changes for better maintainability and readability.

I assume by "Java web development IDE," this article is referring to IDEs based off of IntelliJ. So, pick your poison: IntelliJ IDEA, WebStorm, PhpStorm, etc (I, personally, use Pycharm, because I come from a Python background). This whole article was poorly-generated using AI. Come on, Linkedin, you can do better than that.

When choosing an IDE for Java code refactoring, prioritize one with robust refactoring tools, code analysis, and debugging features. Consider the user interface for ease of use, compatibility with your Java version and other tools, and performance with large codebases. A strong user community and support are also vital. Ultimately, personal preference plays a significant role, so it’s beneficial to experiment with a few options to find the one that best fits your workflow.

One of the most effective ways to know what to refactor is to know when your code smells. There are a couple of code smells, the most prevalent being called "primitive obsession" - the use of primitive data types instead of stronger types that convey the meaning of a piece of code from an outside world (domain) perspective. However, also control flow statements can be "primitive", meaning there is deeply-nested control flow and complicated boolean expressions that do not convey their higher-level domain meaning. Untangle that code by inlining functions on different abstraction levels, extracting variables and methods that encapsulate domain knowledge, and moving those methods closer to the respective domain types (solving feature envy).

In Pycharm (and I assume all other IntelliJ IDEs), go to the hamburger menu in the top left corner (the menu), go to "Settings" > "Editor" > "Code Style," and then select your language of choice to modify how you'd prefer your code to be formatted. Once saved, in your files, press "CTRL + ALT + L." Ta-da! Your code is formatted.

When you're fixing up code using a Java web development IDE, one key step is checking out the changes you've made. Your IDE's got these nifty tools for code review and comparison. Code Review: You go over the code, checking for ways to make it better. Think quality, readability, and how easy it is to keep things running smooth. Code Comparison: This tool helps you see what's different between two versions of your code. It's handy for spotting changes after refactoring and sorting out any hiccups that pop up. Following these steps and making the most of your Java web dev IDE's refactoring tools helps you spruce up your code, making it neater, easier to read, and more awesome for your web app!

Make sure that, if you work on a team, you're not reformatting a bunch of old code for no reason. It dilutes your pull requests, and your coworkers will be unhappy with you. Also, don't reformat it in a way that clashes with your team's defined code style. Leave your personal preferences at home!

Refactoring shows the love and care you put to the code. When not attended regularly the result can be a deteriorating codebase that becomes harder and harder to maintain. With the support of IDEs refactor often with small increments. Make sure to separate the refactoring commits from the feature commits!