Optional<T> is a container that either holds one non-null value or is empty. Methods such as findFirst, max and reduce return it so that the caller must think about the no-result case instead of receiving a surprise null. It is meant mainly as a return type; using it for fields or method parameters is discouraged.
Free account
Keep reading for free
Create a free StudyToCert account to read the rest of this lesson: 6 more sections, 5 key terms, a real-world example, an exam tip and self-check questions. Every lesson, lab and practice test is free with an account.