Is Java Pass-by-Value or Pass-by-Reference?

If you’re confused whether Java is pass-by-value or pass-by-reference, you’re not alone. This is one of the most misunderstood topics in Java, especially among beginners and even experienced developers preparing for interviews.

Let’s simplify the answer with examples. ✅

✅ Quick Answer:

Java is always pass-by-value.
Yes — even when you pass objects.

But… it behaves a bit differently when you pass objects compared to primitive types, which causes the confusion.

Let’s explore both.

🔹 What is Pass-by-Value?

Pass-by-value means a copy of the variable is passed to the method. Changes made to the copy do not affect the original.

🔸 What is Pass-by-Reference?

Pass-by-reference means the reference (memory address) itself is passed. So any changes affect the original object or variable.

🚀 Java Pass-by-Value: Explained

In Java, when you pass a variable to a method, Java creates a copy of that variable’s value and passes it.

This is true for:

• Primitive types → copy of the value
• Objects → copy of the reference

Let’s see both with examples 👇

1️⃣ Example with Primitive…