Why can't variables local to a method be declared final?

Question

I like to know why Variables that are local to a method cannot be declared final. Is there any specific reason?

Does it mean are there no local constants in Java?

Answer 1

They can be declared final. Your actual problem lies somewhere else.

Answer 2

From the Java specification §4.5.4:

A variable can be declared final. A final variable may only be assigned to once. It is a compile time error if a final variable is assigned to unless it is definitely unassigned (§16) immediately prior to the assignment.

In other words, it is perfectly legal. Moreover, it is considered a best practice to use final with local variables as much as possible.

Consistently using final with local variables (when appropriate) can be useful as well. [...] A reasonable approach is to use final for local variables only if there is at least one non-final local variable in the method; this serves to quickly distinguish the non-final local variables from the others.

Answer 3

who said we cannot. we can declare. You might have confused with static which cannot be used in methods.

Answer 4

Silly mistake! Probably you missed mentioning the reference variable and eclipse complains like 'Syntax error on token "final", invalid Type'. Example final Pojo = new Pojo(); which has missing reference variable while it perfectly works if final Pojo pojo = new Pojo(); I am sure when you asked question here at SO by that time you didn't realize that silly mistake there.