Tools for Reading Java Source Code

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In the post, I will cover common tools for reading source code.

Read and debug source code

IntelliJ IDEA

Class hierarchy

  • Show the descendant or ancestor class hierarchy: Ctrl + H
  • Show diagram of ancestor class hierarchy: Option + Command + U
    • Content: Show properties
    • Copy diagram (image) to clipboard
    • Copy selection (image) to clipboard

Method call hierarchy

  • Find Usage: Option + F7

Variable data flow from here or to here

  • Find Usage: Option + F7

Highlight variable

  • Find Usage in File: Command + F7

Add a line of code to bookmarks

Debug

Stepping actions:

  • Step over: F8
  • Step into: F7
  • Step out: Shift + F8
  • Resume to next breakpoint: F9
  • reset frame (Back to previous frame and re-enter a function)

Breakpoints

  • Set breakpoint with conditions.
  • Set field watchpoints.

Evaluate an expression: Option + F8

Frames: lets you navigate in the call stacks of the threads.

UML diagram tools

Visual Paradigm

To draw class diagrams and sequence diagrams.