Return Statement Example in Java

Introduction

Return Statement is a classic Java console program that demonstrates the concept with complete source code and sample output. break, continue and return alter the normal flow inside loops and methods.

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.

Definition

The return statement returns value to the caller. Any time the return statement is called, the process is executed and the value is transferred to the caller.

Syntax

return;
(or)
return value;

Return Statement Example Program

import java.util.Scanner;

class ReturnStatementExample{
	public static void main(String[] args){
		System.out.println("Jump Statement Example");
		System.out.println("Enter 2 numbers for adding");
		Scanner scanner = new Scanner(System.in);
		int num1 = scanner.nextInt();
		int num2 = scanner.nextInt();
		int additionResult = additionMethod(num1,num2);
		System.out.println("Addition Result is : "+additionResult);
		System.out.println("Enter 2 numbers for subtracting");
		int num3 = scanner.nextInt();
		int num4 = scanner.nextInt();
		int subtractionResult = subtractionMethod(num3,num4);
		System.out.println("Subtraction Result is : "+subtractionResult);
	}
	
	static int additionMethod(int num1, int num2){
		int result = num1+num2;
		return result; //returns the result to the caller
	}
	
	static int subtractionMethod(int num1, int num2){
		int result = num1-num2;
		return result; //returns the result to the caller
	}
}

Sample Output

Jump Statement Example
Enter 2 numbers for adding
40
50
Addition Result is : 90
Enter 2 numbers for subtracting
60
40
Subtraction Result is : 20

When to use

Use this return statement example when learning or revising core Java syntax.

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

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

6. int num1 = scanner.nextInt(); updates a variable used in the calculation or output.

7. int num2 = scanner.nextInt(); 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

• Use meaningful variable and class names that describe their purpose.
• Compile and run the program locally — modify values to see how output changes.
• Read compiler errors carefully; they usually point to the exact line to fix.

Common Mistakes

• Copying code without understanding each line — practice by changing one statement at a time.
• Mismatching the public class name and the .java filename.
• Forgetting semicolons at the end of statements.