Quick Answer
The answer is "original" because Java passes object references by value, meaning the method receives a copy of the reference to the String object, not the original reference itself. When the parameter `s` is reassigned to "new" inside the method, only that local copy of the reference is changed; the original variable `name` in the calling code still points to the original String object. On the Oracle Java Foundations 1Z0-811 exam, this question tests your understanding of pass-by-value semantics and String immutability—a common trap is confusing reassignment of the parameter with mutation of the object. Remember, reassigning a parameter never affects the caller’s variable; it only redirects the local copy. A helpful memory tip: "Java passes the remote control by value—you can point your copy to a different channel, but the original remote still points to the old one."
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.
Given method: static void change(String s) { s = "new"; } What is output of: String name = "original"; change(name); System.out.println(name);
null
Why wrong: Incorrect. name was never set to null.
"new"
Why wrong: Incorrect. The method does not change the original reference.
"original"
Correct. name still refers to "original".
Compilation error
Why wrong: Incorrect. Code compiles and runs.
Answer choices
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
"original"
Option C is correct because Java passes object references by value. Inside the method `change`, the local variable `s` is reassigned to a new String object, but this does not affect the original reference `name` in the main method. Strings are immutable, so the original `name` remains "original".
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.
null
Why it's wrong here
Incorrect. name was never set to null.
"new"
Why it's wrong here
Incorrect. The method does not change the original reference.
"original"
Why this is correct
Correct. name still refers to "original".
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
Compilation error
Why it's wrong here
Incorrect. Code compiles and runs.
Common exam traps
The trap here is that candidates mistakenly think Java passes objects by reference, leading them to believe the method's reassignment changes the original variable, when in fact only the local reference is modified.
Detailed technical explanation
In Java, all arguments are passed by value, meaning a copy of the reference is passed to the method. For immutable objects like String, any reassignment inside the method creates a new object and the original reference remains unchanged. This is a common source of confusion because mutable objects can have their state modified via the reference, but reassignment of the reference itself never affects the caller.
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.
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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: "original" — Option C is correct because Java passes object references by value. Inside the method `change`, the local variable `s` is reassigned to a new String object, but this does not affect the original reference `name` in the main method. Strings are immutable, so the original `name` remains "original".
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 25, 2026
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