“Static” usage in C# : it’s not only a keyword

The static keyword in C# is a versatile modifier that can be applied to various elements within the language. Depending on where it's used, static behaves differently and serves different purposes.

In this blog, we'll unravel the mysteries of the static keyword, exploring its behaviours in different contexts and providing code snippets for clarity.

Embark on a journey of continuous learning and exploration with DotNet-FullStack-Dev. https://dotnet-fullstack-dev.blogspot.com/

Static Members in a Class

Behaviour

When applied to class members (fields, methods, properties), the static keyword indicates that the member belongs to the class itself rather than an instance of the class. It is shared among all instances of the class.

public class MathOperations
{
    public static int Add(int a, int b)
    {
        return a + b;
    }

    public static double SquareRoot(double value)
    {
        return Math.Sqrt(value);
    }

    public static int Counter { get; set; } = 0;
}

In this example, Add and SquareRoot are static methods, and Counter is a static property. They can be accessed using the class name, not requiring an instance of MathOperations.

Static Class

Behaviour

A static class is a class that cannot be instantiated, and all its members must be static. It is commonly used for grouping related functionality without the need for instances.

public static class Logger
{
    public static void LogMessage(string message)
    {
        Console.WriteLine($"[LOG] {message}");
    }
}

The Logger class is static, and its LogMessage method is also static. Access it directly without creating an instance of Logger.

Static Constructors

Behaviour

A static constructor in a class is called only once when the class is first accessed, and it’s used to initialize static members.

public class Singleton
{
    private static readonly Singleton instance;

    static Singleton()
    {
        instance = new Singleton();
    }

    private Singleton() { }

    public static Singleton Instance
    {
        get { return instance; }
    }
}

The static constructor ensures that the Singleton class is initialized only once when accessed.

Static Methods in a Non-Static Class

Behaviour

In a non-static class, static methods can be used for utility functions that don't rely on instance-specific data.

public class Utility
{
    public static int CalculateSquare(int x)
    {
        return x * x;
    }
}

Here, CalculateSquare is a static method in a non-static class, providing utility functionality.

Conclusion

The static keyword in C# is a powerful tool with various use cases. Whether applied to class members, classes themselves, constructors, or methods within a non-static class, static provides a means of organizing and sharing functionality without the need for object instances.

As you navigate the C# landscape, understanding the different behaviors of the static keyword empowers you to design more efficient, modular, and expressive code. Whether you're creating utility classes, implementing singletons, or simply organizing related functionality, the static keyword is a valuable asset in your programming toolkit.