Constructor vs. Method: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Published on February 6, 2024
A constructor is a special method in object-oriented programming used to initialize a new object, whereas a method is a block of code within a class that defines an object's behavior.
Key Differences
Constructors are special methods in object-oriented programming used to create and initialize an object when it is instantiated. Methods, on the other hand, are regular functions defined within a class that describe the behaviors of an object.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 06, 2024
A constructor typically has the same name as its class and does not have a return type. Methods are named blocks of code that can perform tasks and optionally return a value, and they have their own names distinct from the class name.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 06, 2024
Constructors are automatically called upon the creation of an object. Methods must be explicitly called to perform their designated function.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 06, 2024
In many programming languages, constructors can be overloaded to allow different ways of initializing an object. Methods can also be overloaded or overridden to provide different implementations.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 06, 2024
The primary purpose of a constructor is to set initial values for object attributes. Methods are used to define various actions that an object can perform or calculations it can execute.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 06, 2024
ADVERTISEMENT
Comparison Chart
Naming
Same as the class, no return type
Different from the class, may return value
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 06, 2024
Call Timing
Automatically on object instantiation
Explicitly by object or class
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 06, 2024
Overloading
Can be overloaded for different initializations
Can be overloaded or overridden
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 06, 2024
Primary Function
Sets initial state of object attributes
Performs actions or calculations
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 06, 2024
ADVERTISEMENT
Constructor and Method Definitions
Constructor
A special method to initialize new instances of a class.
The constructor for the 'Car' class sets the initial model and color.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 18, 2024
Method
Can return a value or perform an action.
This 'updateProfile' method updates the user's information.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 18, 2024
Constructor
A block of code invoked when an object is created.
In the 'User' class, the constructor assigns the username and password.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 18, 2024
Method
Operates on the data contained in an object.
The 'move' method changes the position of the graphic object.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 18, 2024
Constructor
A method that does not return a value.
The 'Rectangle' constructor initializes its length and breadth.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 18, 2024
ADVERTISEMENT
Method
A block of code that performs a specific task.
I used the 'printDetails' method to display the object's information.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 18, 2024
Constructor
A unique method with the same name as its class.
He wrote a constructor for the 'Book' class to define its initial state.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 18, 2024
Method
Can be called on an object or statically from a class.
The 'findMax' method finds the maximum value in the list.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 18, 2024
Method
A means or manner of procedure, especially a regular and systematic way of accomplishing something
A simple method for making a pie crust.
Mediation as a method of solving disputes. See Usage Note at methodology.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 18, 2024
Constructor
To create (an argument or a sentence, for example) by systematically arranging ideas or terms.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 18, 2024
Method
Orderly arrangement of parts or steps to accomplish an end
Random efforts that lack method.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 18, 2024
Constructor
(Mathematics) To draw (a geometric figure) that meets specific requirements.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 18, 2024
Method
The procedures and techniques characteristic of a particular discipline or field of knowledge
This field course gives an overview of archaeological method.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 18, 2024
Method
Method A technique of acting in which the actor recalls emotions and reactions from past experience and uses them in identifying with and individualizing the character being portrayed.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 18, 2024
Constructor
A concept, model, or schematic idea
A theoretical construct of the atom.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 18, 2024
Method
A process by which a task is completed; a way of doing something (followed by the adposition of, to or for before the purpose of the process).
If one method doesn't work, you should ask a friend to help you.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 18, 2024
Constructor
A concrete image or idea
"[He] began to shift focus from the haunted constructs of terror in his early work" (Stephen Koch).
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 18, 2024
Method
A technique for acting based on the ideas articulated by Konstantin Stanislavski and focusing on authentically experiencing the inner life of the character being portrayed.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 18, 2024
Method
(object-oriented) A subroutine or function belonging to a class or object.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 18, 2024
Constructor
(automotive) A company or individual who builds racing vehicles. In Formula One, constructor status is strictly defined by the rules, but in other motorsports the term is merely a descriptor. Depending on the racing rules, some constructors (e.g. Cosworth) may provide vehicles to racing teams who are not themselves constructors, while others are both teams and constructors (Ducati Corse, Scuderia Ferrari).
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 18, 2024
Constructor
(object-oriented programming) A class method that creates and initializes each instance of an object.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 18, 2024
Constructor
Someone who contracts for and supervises construction (as of a building)
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 18, 2024
Constructor
Used to set initial values of object attributes.
The constructor in this code initializes all the required fields.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 18, 2024
Method
To apply particular treatment methods to (a mold).
The company employs extensive use of 3D modelling combined with solidification simulation to ensure that critical castings are properly methoded.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 18, 2024
Method
An orderly procedure or process; regular manner of doing anything; hence, manner; way; mode; as, a method of teaching languages; a method of improving the mind.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 18, 2024
Method
Orderly arrangement, elucidation, development, or classification; clear and lucid exhibition; systematic arrangement peculiar to an individual.
Though this be madness, yet there's method in it.
All method is a rational progress, a progress toward an end.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 18, 2024
Method
Classification; a mode or system of classifying natural objects according to certain common characteristics; as, the method of Theophrastus; the method of Ray; the Linnæan method.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 18, 2024
Method
A technique used in acting in which the actor tries to identify with the individual personality of the specific character being portrayed, so as to provide a realistic rendering of the character's role. Also called the Method, method acting, the Stanislavsky Method or Stanislavsky System.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 18, 2024
Method
A way of doing something, especially a systematic way; implies an orderly logical arrangement (usually in steps)
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 18, 2024
Method
A function defined within a class.
The 'calculateArea' method computes the area of the shape.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 18, 2024
Repeatedly Asked Queries
Is a constructor mandatory in a class?
Not always; some languages provide a default constructor if none is specified.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 06, 2024
How often can a method be called?
A method can be called multiple times, whenever needed.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 06, 2024
Can methods exist outside of classes?
In object-oriented programming, methods are defined within classes.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 06, 2024
What does a method do?
A method defines the behavior of an object, performing specific actions or calculations.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 06, 2024
Do methods have to change an object's state?
No, some methods may just return information about the object without changing it.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 06, 2024
What is a constructor?
A constructor is a special method used to initialize new instances of a class.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 06, 2024
Can methods be static?
Yes, methods can be static, meaning they can be called without creating an object.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 06, 2024
Can constructors be private?
Yes, constructors can be private, typically in singleton patterns.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 06, 2024
Is a constructor called automatically?
Yes, a constructor is called automatically when an object is created.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 06, 2024
What happens if a constructor is not defined?
Most languages automatically provide a default constructor.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 06, 2024
Can a class have more than one constructor?
Yes, classes can have multiple constructors, known as constructor overloading.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 06, 2024
How does a constructor identify itself?
A constructor is identified by having the same name as the class.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 06, 2024
Are constructors inherited?
Constructors are not inherited in most programming languages.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 06, 2024
Can a method be overloaded?
Yes, methods can be overloaded with different parameters.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 06, 2024
Do constructors have parameters?
Constructors can have parameters to initialize object attributes.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 06, 2024
What's the difference in usage between a constructor and a method?
Constructors are used for initialization, while methods are used for operations on objects.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 06, 2024
Are methods required in a class?
While not mandatory, methods are essential for defining the behavior of a class.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 06, 2024
Can methods access private attributes of a class?
Yes, methods can access private attributes within the same class.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 06, 2024
What is method overriding?
Method overriding is redefining a method in a subclass that already exists in the parent class.
Shumaila Saeed
Feb 06, 2024
Share this page
Link for your blog / website
HTML
Link to share via messenger
About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
Shumaila Saeed
Dua Fatima
Hifza Nasir
