Enums

Enums (enumerations) are a way to define a set of named constants. They provide type safety and make code more readable by using meaningful names instead of magic numbers or strings.

What are Enums?

An enum is a special type that represents a fixed set of constants. Instead of using arbitrary numbers or strings, enums allow you to use meaningful names.

Why Use Enums?

• Type Safety - Prevents invalid values
• Readability - Code is self-documenting
• Maintainability - Easy to update values in one place
• IDE Support - Better autocomplete and refactoring

Basic Enums

Different languages implement enums in different ways:

Enum with Integer Values

Enums can use integer values:

Enum with Methods

Enums can have methods and properties:

Real-World Example: Order Status

Enum Iteration

You can iterate over all enum values:

Visual Representation

Key Takeaways

Remember

• Enums provide type-safe named constants
• Python: Use Enum or IntEnum from the enum module
• Java: Use enum keyword (special class type)
• Enums can have methods and properties
• Enums improve readability and maintainability
• Use enums instead of magic numbers or strings
• Enums can be iterated over all values
• Enums provide type safety - prevents invalid values

When to Use Enums

Use enums when:

• You have a fixed set of related constants
• You want type safety (prevent invalid values)
• You need self-documenting code
• Values won’t change frequently
• You want better IDE support

Examples:

• Status values (PENDING, ACTIVE, INACTIVE)
• Days of the week
• Colors
• Priority levels
• Error codes
• Configuration options