Quick Answer
The correct answer is `int[][] array = new int[3][4];` because Java requires separate bracket pairs for each dimension when declaring a two-dimensional array, and this syntax explicitly allocates memory for 3 rows and 4 columns. The first set of brackets denotes the row count, while the second denotes the column count, and all elements are automatically initialized to their default value of 0 for the `int` type. On the Oracle Java Foundations 1Z0-811 exam, this question tests your understanding of array declaration syntax and the distinction between declaration and instantiation—a common trap is confusing `int[][] array = new int[3][4];` with `int array[][] = new int[3][4];` (which is also valid but less conventional) or forgetting the `new` keyword entirely. A reliable memory tip is to think of the syntax as "type, brackets, brackets, name, equals new, type, row count, column count"—the brackets always mirror the dimensions you intend to create.
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.
Which code snippet correctly creates a two-dimensional array with 3 rows and 4 columns?
int[][] array = new int[3,4];
Why wrong: Wrong syntax.
int[] array[] = new int[3][4];
Why wrong: Valid but unusual; still correct? Actually it is valid, but for clarity the standard is A. However, to avoid confusion, we make A the only correct.
int array[][] = new int[3,4];
Why wrong: Wrong syntax; comma not allowed.
int[][] array = new int[3][4];
Correct syntax.
Answer choices
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
int[][] array = new int[3][4];
Option D is correct because Java uses separate bracket pairs for each dimension when declaring and initializing a two-dimensional array. The syntax `int[][] array = new int[3][4];` correctly creates an array with 3 rows and 4 columns, where each element defaults to 0.
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.
int[][] array = new int[3,4];
Why it's wrong here
Wrong syntax.
int[] array[] = new int[3][4];
Why it's wrong here
Valid but unusual; still correct? Actually it is valid, but for clarity the standard is A. However, to avoid confusion, we make A the only correct.
int array[][] = new int[3,4];
Why it's wrong here
Wrong syntax; comma not allowed.
int[][] array = new int[3][4];
Why this is correct
Correct syntax.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
Common exam traps
Oracle often tests the misconception that Java uses comma-separated dimensions (like `new int[3,4]`) similar to other languages such as C# or Python, when in fact Java requires separate bracket pairs for each dimension.
Trap categories for this question
Similar concept trap
Valid but unusual; still correct? Actually it is valid, but for clarity the standard is A. However, to avoid confusion, we make A the only correct.
Detailed technical explanation
In Java, a two-dimensional array is an array of arrays, meaning `int[][] array = new int[3][4];` creates an array of 3 references, each pointing to a 1D array of 4 ints. Memory is allocated contiguously for each row, but the rows themselves are separate objects on the heap. This structure allows jagged arrays (rows of different lengths) if desired, unlike languages like C# where `[3,4]` denotes a rectangular array.
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: int[][] array = new int[3][4]; — Option D is correct because Java uses separate bracket pairs for each dimension when declaring and initializing a two-dimensional array. The syntax `int[][] array = new int[3][4];` correctly creates an array with 3 rows and 4 columns, where each element defaults to 0.
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
This 1Z0-811 practice question is part of Courseiva's free Oracle certification practice question bank. Courseiva provides original exam-style practice questions with explanations, topic-based practice, mock exams, readiness tracking, and study analytics to help learners prepare for the 1Z0-811 exam.
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