M Pattern with Asterick and Space Example in Java

Introduction

M pattern with Asterick and Space is a classic Java console program that demonstrates the concept with complete source code and sample output. Pattern programs print shapes with nested loops — common in exams and interviews.

This tutorial walks through the program line by line, explains how the logic works, and highlights best practices you can apply in your own code.

M Pattern Example Program

import java.util.Scanner;

class StarPatternExample {

    public static void main(String[] args) {
        System.out.println("Enter the number of rows for pattern : ");
        Scanner scanner = new Scanner(System.in);
        int rowsCount = scanner.nextInt();
        int spacesCount = 0;
        for (int i = rowsCount; i > 0; i--) {
            for (int j = i; j > 0; j--) {
                System.out.print("*");
            }
            for (int j = 0; j < spacesCount; j++) {
                System.out.print(" ");
            }
            for (int j = i; j > 0; j--) {
                System.out.print("*");
            }
            spacesCount = spacesCount + 2;
            System.out.println("");
        }
    }
}

Sample Output

Enter the number of rows for pattern :
5
**********
****  ****
***    ***
**      **
*        *

When to use

Use pattern logic when practicing nested loops or preparing for coding tests that ask for triangle or pyramid output.

How it works

1. Execution begins in the main method — the JVM calls this method when you run the class.

2. import java.util.Scanner; imports a class used later in the program.

3. A println / print call writes text to the console — part of the sample output below.

4. A Scanner reads typed input from the keyboard (System.in).

5. int rowsCount = scanner.nextInt(); updates a variable used in the calculation or output.

6. int spacesCount = 0; updates a variable used in the calculation or output.

7. for (int i = rowsCount; i > 0; i--) { updates a variable used in the calculation or output.

8. A println / print call writes text to the console — part of the sample output below.

Best Practices

Common Mistakes