Quick Answer
The correct answer is that a switch statement with String in Java works starting from Java 7. This is because Java 7 introduced support for String objects in switch statements through JSR 334, allowing the compiler to evaluate the switch expression against case labels using the String class’s `hashCode()` and `equals()` methods. On the Oracle Java Foundations 1Z0-811 exam, this concept tests your understanding of control flow evolution and the specific version where String support was added—a common trap is assuming it works in earlier Java versions or confusing it with enum support, which arrived in Java 5. Remember the memory tip: “Seven is heaven for String in switch”—Java 7 is the key version to recall when you see a switch statement branching on string values.
This 1Z0-811 practice question tests your understanding of java basics and syntax. Read the scenario carefully and evaluate each option against the stated constraints before committing to an answer. After answering, compare your reasoning against the explanation and wrong-answer breakdown below. Once you have made your selection, read the full explanation to reinforce the concept and understand why each distractor is designed to mislead on exam day.
A developer uses a switch statement with a String variable. Which is true about this usage?
It works only with primitive types
Why wrong: Strings are allowed since Java 7, not only primitives.
It causes a compilation error because strings are not supported
Why wrong: Strings are supported in switch from Java 7 onward.
It works with strings starting from Java 7
Switch on strings is valid since Java 7.
It requires a default case
Why wrong: Default case is optional.
Answer choices
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
It works with strings starting from Java 7
Option C is correct because, starting from Java 7 (JSR 334), the switch statement supports String objects in addition to primitive types and enums. The compiler uses the `hashCode()` and `equals()` methods of the String class to evaluate the switch expression against case labels, making it a valid and efficient way to branch on string values.
Key principle: Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Answer analysis
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
It works only with primitive types
Why it's wrong here
Strings are allowed since Java 7, not only primitives.
It causes a compilation error because strings are not supported
Why it's wrong here
Strings are supported in switch from Java 7 onward.
It works with strings starting from Java 7
Why this is correct
Switch on strings is valid since Java 7.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
It requires a default case
Why it's wrong here
Default case is optional.
Common exam traps
Oracle often tests the Java version where String support was introduced (Java 7), and the trap here is that candidates who learned Java before 7 or who confuse switch with older limitations may incorrectly think Strings are not allowed or that only primitives work.
Detailed technical explanation
Under the hood, the Java compiler translates a switch on a String by first computing the hash code of the String and using a `tableswitch` or `lookupswitch` on the hash values, then verifying the match with `equals()` to avoid collisions. This approach maintains O(1) average performance for case selection. A real-world scenario is parsing user commands (e.g., "start", "stop", "pause") where a switch on String is more readable than a chain of if-else statements.
Key takeaway
Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Real-world example
A practitioner preparing for the 1Z0-811 exam encounters this exact type of scenario on the job. The correct answer here is not the most general option — it is the best answer for the specific constraint described. Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option. Real exam questions reward reading the full scenario before eliminating options, because the constraint defines which answer fits.
What to study next
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FAQ
Java Basics and Syntax — This question tests Java Basics and Syntax — Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer..
The correct answer is: It works with strings starting from Java 7 — Option C is correct because, starting from Java 7 (JSR 334), the switch statement supports String objects in addition to primitive types and enums. The compiler uses the `hashCode()` and `equals()` methods of the String class to evaluate the switch expression against case labels, making it a valid and efficient way to branch on string values.
Identify which exam domain this question belongs to, review the core concept, then practise similar questions from the same domain.
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
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Last reviewed: Jun 30, 2026
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