1Z0-811 Java Basics and Syntax Practice Question
A developer writes: int x; System.out.println(x); What is the result?
⚠ Common exam trap
The Java Foundations exam often tests the distinction between local variables (which require explicit initialization) and instance/class variables (which receive default values), leading candidates to incorrectly assume that `int x` will default to 0.
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
Compilation fails
B is correct because in Java, a local variable (such as `int x;` declared inside a method) must be initialized before it is used. The code attempts to print `x` without assigning a value, which violates the definite assignment rule and causes a compilation error.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
null
Why it's wrong here
Incorrect. null is for reference types.
- ✓
Compilation fails
Why this is correct
Correct. The variable x is not initialized.
- ✗
Runtime error
Why it's wrong here
Incorrect. The error is at compile time.
- ✗
0
Why it's wrong here
Incorrect. Local variables do not get default values.
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