Introduction to String Formatting:-

String formatting is a powerful feature in programming languages that allows you to create formatted and dynamic strings by combining text with variable values. 

It provides a convenient way to control the appearance and structure of your output. 

In Java, string formatting is achieved using the String.format() method or the printf() method.


The basic idea behind string formatting is to define a template or pattern that specifies where and how the variables should be inserted into the resulting string. 

This template usually includes special placeholders or format specifiers that are replaced with the corresponding values at runtime.


Format Specifiers:

Format specifiers define the type and formatting options for variables within the string template. Some commonly used format specifiers in Java include:


%s for strings

%d for integers

%f for floating-point numbers

%c for characters

%b for booleans

%t for dates and times (using additional formatting options)

Example:


String name = "John";
int age = 25; 
double height = 1.75;
String formattedString = String.format("My name is %s, I'm %d years old, and my height is %.2f meters.", name, age, height); 
System.out.println(formattedString);

In this example, the %s format specifier is used to insert the name variable, %d for age, and %.2f for height. 

The resulting formatted string will be: "My name is John, I'm 25 years old, and my height is 1.75 meters."


Formatting Options:

String formatting also provides various formatting options to control the appearance of the variables in the resulting string. 

These options can include precision, width, alignment, and more.


Example:


int value = 42; 
String decimalFormat = String.format("Decimal: %d", value);
 System.out.println(decimalFormat); // Output: Decimal: 42 
String hexFormat = String.format("Hexadecimal: %X", value);
 System.out.println(hexFormat); // Output: Hexadecimal: 2A 
String paddedFormat = String.format("Padded: %05d", value);
 System.out.println(paddedFormat); // Output: Padded: 00042

In this example, different formatting options are applied to the value variable. The resulting strings demonstrate decimal, hexadecimal, and padded formats.


String formatting is a versatile feature that allows you to create custom and well-formatted strings based on your specific requirements. 

It is widely used for generating formatted output, constructing log messages, displaying data, and more. 

By mastering string formatting techniques, you can enhance the readability and presentation of your program's output.