Last Updated on February 27th, 2024

Everybody in the world must have heard about the ChatGPT. Some of us has already started utilizing it in completing our day to day tasks. It has gained a popularity during the early days of its launch. No matter which area or industry you belong to, it is very useful in getting your task done promptly. Undoubtedly, it is a very handy tool for developers and programmers as well. Therefore, it becomes important to know its capabilities for developers and programmers.

In this article, we will talk about ‘ChatGPT for Developers and Programmers’.

How to utilize ChatGPT for Developers and Programmers?

ChatGPT can help us in several ways when it comes to writing code. We can take help of it on performing some of the important tasks in coding as listed below:

1) Code Examples for specific tasks or problems

2) Code Corrections to fix errors in the code

3) Algorithm Design

4) Code Reviews for coding standards, best practices, and possible improvements

5) Syntax Help to write a code

6) Documentation and comments for our code

7) Learning and Explanation of programming concepts

8) Pseudocode Generation

9) Code Translation from one programming language to another

10) Code Optimization for better performance

We will go through each of them in detail in the subsequent sections.

Remember that while ChatGPT can be a useful tool in coding, it’s essential to validate the generated code and apply critical thinking, as it may not always provide perfect or context-aware solutions. Additionally, combining AI assistance with your own coding skills and practices is the most effective way to leverage these capabilities.

How to use ChatGPT?

Open your preferred browser and search for ‘open ai chatgpt’ or go through the direct link of ChatGPT (chat.openai.com) and follow the instructions to sign up if not already done. Once sign up is done, open a new window by clicking on ‘new chat’ option and start chatting with it.

Use ChatGPT to Write the Code 

With the help of ChatGPT, we can write code for specific tasks or problems. We need to describe the functionality that we need to implement, and it can generate code snippets in the programming language of our choice. Let’s try to generate one example:

ChatGPT Prompt

I have a list of employees. Each Employee object has id, name, department and salary. I want to sort this list by salary in descending order and print the results in console. Can you write an example code using Java 8 to achieve this for me?

ChatGPT Response

Use ChatGPT to display output of the Code 

Sometimes we come across a code snippet and want to test the output of the same. We can use ChatGPT without having the essential environment to run the code. Let’s do an exercise.

ChatGPT Prompt

I have a code snippet with me. Can you provide me the output of the same?

import java.util.ArrayList;
import java.util.Arrays;
import java.util.List;

public class JavaExample {
    public static void main(String[] args) {
        List<Integer> numbers = Arrays.asList(3,6,9,12,15);

        List<Integer> specialNumbers = new ArrayList<>();
        for (Integer number : numbers) {
           if (number % 2 == 1) {
              specialNumbers.add(number);
           }
        }

        System.out.println("Special Numbers: " + specialNumbers);
    }
}

ChatGPT Response

Use ChatGPT to Debug the Code

We can also use ChatGPT for debugging and code review. We can input our code and receive suggestions for correcting and improving it. Apart from that, ChatGPT can also help us to identify errors in the code and provide suggestions for fixing them.

Let’s provide a buggy code to ChatGPT as an input and see what it will advise us about a possible mistake and it’s resolution.

ChatGPT Prompt

I am providing you a Java code snippet. This code may have some bugs. Can you debug it and suggest your resolution. 

public class BugExample {
   public static void main(String[] args) {
      int[] numbers = {1, 2, 3, 4, 5};
      int sum = 0;
      for (int i = 1; i <= numbers.length; i++) {
         sum += numbers[i];
      }
      System.out.println("Sum of numbers: " + sum);
   }
}

ChatGPT Response

 

Use ChatGPT to Understand the Existing Code 

ChatGPT can help us in understanding complicated codes and algorithms. Moreover, ChatGPT can provide explanations of a complex code and help us to better understand how the code works and how to implement it in our own projects.

Let’s input a code snippet in ChatGPT and ask it to explain to us. Let’s try it.

ChatGPT Prompt

Can you explain what this code does in simple language. I am a beginner in Java Programming.

public void removeTask(String task) {
   for (int i = 0; i < taskCount; i++) {
       if (tasks[i].equals(task)) {
          for (int j = i; j < taskCount - 1; j++) {
            tasks[j] = tasks[j + 1];
          }
          taskCount--;
          System.out.println("Task removed: " + task);
          return; 
        }
    }
    System.out.println("Task not found: " + task);
}

ChatGPT Response

Use ChatGPT to Migrate the Code

We can use ChatGPT for migrating any code from lower versions to its higher version. We can input our code and get the response as an improved code.

Let’s provide a code snippet to ChatGPT and ask for converting it to higher version of the language.

ChatGPT Prompt

I am providing you a Java code snippet. This code is written using Java 7. Can you write the equivalent code using Java 8? 

import java.util.ArrayList;
import java.util.List;
import java.util.Arrays;

public class Java7Example {
    public static void main(String[] args) {
        List<Integer> numbers = Arrays.asList(3,6,9,12,15);

        List<Integer> evenNumbers = new ArrayList<>();
        for (Integer number : numbers) {
           if (number % 2 == 0) {
              evenNumbers.add(number);
           }
        }

        System.out.println("Even numbers: " + evenNumbers);
    }
}

ChatGPT Response

Here's the equivalent code using Java 8 features (streams and lambda
expressions) to find even numbers from the list of integers:



In this Java 8 code:

1) We use the Arrays.asList() method to create a list of integers.
2) We convert the list into a stream using the stream() method.
3) We use the filter operation to filter out even numbers based on 
 the provided condition (number % 2 == 0).
4) We use the collect operation to collect the filtered numbers into
 a new list.
5) Finally, we print the list of even numbers, which will produce
 the same result as the Java 7 code.

This Java 8 code is more concise and leverages the functional 
programming capabilities of Java 8 to simplify the task of 
filtering even numbers from the list.

Use ChatGPT to Learn a Programming Language

ChatGPT can also help us in learning a new Programming Language. Let’s ask ChatGPT to learn Java language.

ChatGPT Prompt

I am a beginner. I want to start learning Java. Can you suggest me how I should proceed?

ChatGPT Response

Certainly! Learning Java as a beginner is a great choice because Java is a widely
used and versatile programming language. Here's a step-by-step guide on how you
can start learning Java:

1. Install Java:
The first step is to install the Java Development Kit (JDK) on your computer. You
can download the latest version of the JDK from the official Oracle website or
choose an open-source alternative like OpenJDK. 
Follow the installation instructions for your specific operating system.

2. Choose a Development Environment:
You can write and run Java code using a simple text editor and the command line, 
but it's more convenient to use an Integrated Development Environment (IDE) for 
Java development. Popular IDEs for Java include Eclipse, IntelliJ IDEA, and 
NetBeans. These IDEs provide features like code auto-completion, debugging tools,
and project management.

3. Learn the Basics:
Start with the fundamentals of Java programming, including:
Variables and data types (int, double, String, etc.).
Control structures (if statements, loops).
Functions and methods.
Object-oriented programming concepts (classes and objects).
Input and output (console input/output).

4. Practice Writing Code:
Programming is a hands-on skill, so practice is crucial. Write small Java programs
to reinforce what you've learned. Start with simple tasks like printing messages
to the console and gradually move on to more complex projects.

5. Study Object-Oriented Programming (OOP):
Java is an object-oriented language, so it's essential to understand OOP principles.
Learn about classes, objects, inheritance, polymorphism, and encapsulation.

6. Explore Java Libraries:
Java has a vast standard library (Java Standard Library or Java API) that provides
pre-built classes and functions for various tasks. Familiarize yourself with
commonly used classes in areas like file I/O, collections, and networking.

7. Work on Projects:
Apply your knowledge by working on small projects. Building real-world applications
will help you gain practical experience and problem-solving skills.

8. Study Data Structures and Algorithms:
Learning data structures (e.g., arrays, linked lists, queues) and algorithms
(e.g., sorting, searching) is essential for more advanced programming tasks.

9. Online Courses and Tutorials:
There are many online resources, courses, and tutorials for learning Java. 
Websites like Codecademy, Coursera, edX, and Udemy offer Java courses for beginners.

10. Read Books:
Consider purchasing or borrowing Java programming books for in-depth learning.
Some popular books for Java beginners include 
"Head First Java" and "Java: A Beginner's Guide."

11. Practice Problem Solving:
Participate in coding challenges on platforms like LeetCode, HackerRank, 
or Codeforces. Solving problems enhances your coding and algorithmic skills.

12. Join a Java Community:
Join online forums or communities like Stack Overflow, Reddit (r/javahelp),
or Java-focused social media groups like Facebook, LinkedIn groups. 
You can ask questions, share your knowledge, and learn from others.

13. Build a Portfolio:
As you gain experience, create a portfolio of your Java projects.
Having a portfolio can be helpful when applying for jobs or internships.

14. Consider Online Courses:
If you're serious about Java development, consider enrolling in formal
Java courses at a local college or university or taking online courses from 
accredited institutions.

15. Stay Updated:
Java evolves, so stay up to date with the latest Java releases, features, and 
best practices.

Remember that learning Java (or any programming language) takes time and practice.
Don't be discouraged by initial challenges; keep coding and seeking help when needed.
Enjoy the journey of becoming a Java developer!

Use ChatGPT to Learn a feature of the Programming Language

Sometimes we forget some concept or feature of the programming language. ChatGPT can help us to refresh our concept of a particular feature or topic.

ChatGPT Prompt

Java 17 has finalized a new feature ‘sealed’. Can you make me understand in simple language what it is with an example? Take a note that I am a beginner in Java.

ChatGPT Response

Certainly! In Java 17, the "sealed" feature introduces a way to control which
classes can extend or implement a particular class or interface. It allows you
to specify that only specific classes or interfaces can be extended or 
implemented by other classes.

Think of it like a "sealed envelope" that contains a message, and you only
want certain people to be able to open and read that message. In Java, you can
seal a class or interface to restrict which classes are allowed to inherit from it.

Here's a simple explanation with an example:

Sealed Classes and Interfaces:

Suppose you have a class called Shape that represents geometric shapes, and you
want to ensure that only specific shapes like Circle and Rectangle can be created,
but not any random shape. You can seal the Shape class to achieve this. 

Example Code:



In this example:
1) The Shape class is sealed using the sealed keyword and specifies that it permits
 classes Circle and Rectangle to extend it. This means only Circle and Rectangle 
 can be subclasses of Shape.
2) The Circle and Rectangle classes are marked as final, which means they cannot be
 further subclassed.
3) If you try to create a class like Triangle that extends Shape, it will result 
 in a compilation error because Triangle is not one of the permitted subclasses
 of Shape.

So, sealed classes and interfaces help you control and restrict the inheritance
hierarchy, making your code more structured and preventing unintended subclassing.
It provides a way to clearly define which classes can extend or implement a sealed
class or interface, which can be helpful for maintaining code integrity and 
preventing unexpected behavior.

Use ChatGPT to Comment & Document the Code

In a developer’s life writing comments is a very painful task, but our code should be filled with comments especially when we deploy it in production. However, ChatGPT always write a code filled with comments. If we want to add comments in our code, we can take help of ChatGPT. Let’s do one exercise for that also.

ChatGPT Prompt

I will provide you a code snippet written in Java language. Please include comments wherever possible so that a novice programmer can understand the code easily.

class SharedResource {
   private int count = 0;

   public synchronized void increment() {
      count++;
   }

   public synchronized int getCount() {
      return count;
   }
}

public class SynchronizationExample {
   public static void main(String[] args) {
      SharedResource resource = new SharedResource();

      Thread thread1 = new Thread(() -> {
         for (int i = 0; i < 10000; i++) {
           resource.increment();
         }
      });

      Thread thread2 = new Thread(() -> {
         for (int i = 0; i < 10000; i++) {
           resource.increment();
         }
      });

      thread1.start();
      thread2.start();

      try {
        thread1.join();
        thread2.join();
      } catch (InterruptedException e) {
         e.printStackTrace();
      }

      System.out.println("Final Count: " + resource.getCount());
   }
}

ChatGPT Response

Use ChatGPT to Translate the Code in Another Language

If there is a need to translate a code snippet to a particular programming language which is written in another programming language, ChatGPT can help us to do it. Let’s try it with an example:

ChatGPT Prompt

I will provide you a code snippet written in Java language. You have to convert that into Python Language. 

public static void withdrawMoney(double balance, double amount) {

   if (amount < 0) {
      System.out.println("Invalid withdrawal amount. Amount must be non-negative.");
   } 
   else if (amount > balance) {
      System.out.println("Insufficient funds. Cannot withdraw more than the available balance.");
   } else {
      balance -= amount;
      System.out.println("Withdrawal of $" + amount + " successful.");
   }
}

ChatGPT Response

 

Use ChatGPT to Review the Code 

We can utilize ChatGPT as a useful tool for reviewing code in multiple ways:

1) Code Quality and Best Practices: We can use ChatGPT to review code in favor of compliance to best practices, style guidelines, and coding standards. For example, we can ask it to check if the code follows a specific coding convention or if there are any potential issues related to code quality.

ChatGPT Prompt: “Please review this Java code and provide feedback on coding standards and best practices.”

2) Syntax and Logic Errors: ChatGPT can help identify syntax errors and logic issues in code. It can provide insights into potential problems or improvements that need to be made.

ChatGPT Prompt: “Can you identify any syntax errors or logical issues in this Python code?”

3) Code Optimization: We can ask ChatGPT for suggestions on optimizing code for performance or efficiency. It can provide recommendations on how to make the code more efficient or simplified.

ChatGPT Prompt: “Are there any opportunities for optimizing this SQL query for better performance?”

4) Security Vulnerabilities: ChatGPT can assist in identifying potential security vulnerabilities in code. We can query about security best practices and whether the code follows them.

ChatGPT Prompt: “Please check this JavaScript code for security vulnerabilities and suggest improvements.”

5) Documentation and Comments: ChatGPT can evaluate for comments and documentation in code. It can offer suggestions on improving code comments to make the code more understandable for other developers.

ChatGPT Prompt: “Review the comments in this C# code and let me know if they are clear and helpful.”

6) Code Review Checklist: We can provide ChatGPT with a specific code review checklist, and it can go through the code and check each item on the list to provide feedback and suggestions.

ChatGPT Prompt: “Please follow this code review checklist and let me know if the code meets all the criteria.”

7) Code Comparison: ChatGPT can compare two versions of code and point out the differences, helping with code review and version control.

ChatGPT Prompt: “Compare these two versions of the Python script and tell me what has changed between them.”

8) Explaining Code: If you’re reviewing code and face something you don’t understand, you can ask ChatGPT to explain specific code segments or concepts, making the review process more insightful.

ChatGPT Prompt: “Can you explain how this section of JavaScript code works? I’m having trouble understanding it.”

While ChatGPT can be a helpful tool for code review, it’s essential to remember that it’s not a substitute for human code reviewers who can provide deeper insights, context, and domain-specific knowledge. Combining AI assistance with human code review can be a powerful approach to improving code quality.

Use ChatGPT to Prepare for the Interviews

Find out the particular areas you need to focus on for your upcoming interviews. This could include data structures, algorithms, coding challenges, system design, or particular technologies. Start by asking ChatGPT conceptual questions related to the topics you are exploring. For example, you can ask about data structures like linked lists, binary trees, or hash tables, or algorithms like sorting and searching etc.

Ask ChatGPT to explain complex concepts, algorithms, or design patterns. This helps you gain a deeper understanding and the ability to explain these topics during interviews. Utilize ChatGPT to generate coding challenges or ask for solutions to common coding problems. Practice solving these challenges on your own and compare your solutions with those provided by ChatGPT.

If you are a Java Developer, you may check various articles on concepts of Core Java, Spring Boot, Microservices and others.

If you are interested to know about Google Bard, kindly visit Google Bard for Developers and Programmers.

Furthermore, if are interested to know how to add AI capabilities in Spring, kindly visit Spring AI Reference guide.

FAQ

Can we have trust on ChatGPT completely to get our coding task done?

No, we can’t fully rely upon ChatGPT. We need to have basic knowledge of the programming to verify the code generated by ChatGPT. We can’t trust blindly on it to get our task done. Let’s observe the below screenshot of incorrect output of a program, that was produced by ChatGPT.

As shown in the ChatGPT response, the output is wrong. The Filtered List should contain one element ‘Kiwi’ that only has the character ‘k’.

Will ChatGPT replace developer jobs?

No, ChatGPT can’t replace the developer’s job completely. It can help developers to increase productivity up to a large scale. It is more likely to complement developer’s work rather than replace them. It is important for developers to maintain learning and adapting to new technologies, so they can utilize AI tools efficiently and focus on higher-level tasks that demand human expertise.

ChatGPT and similar AI technologies have the potential to automate certain tasks and processes, but not all. Undoubtedly, ChatGPT can assist with generating code snippets, providing documentation suggestions, or helping with debugging, it is not likely to replace developers entirely.

Developers produce a unique combination of creativity, problem-solving skills, and domain expertise that AI systems currently do not fully possess. Hence, ChatGPT or any other AI tool will not swap human developers, but can considerably boost their overall productivity.

How do I use ChatGPT to be a better developer?

We have already discussed various ways to utilize ChatGPT in this article at length. In summary, we can utilize its code generation for solutions and examples, request code reviews and best practices suggestion, and troubleshoot errors. ChatGPT can also help with algorithm design, explain programming concepts, and provide documentation insights. Moreover, we can use it for learning new languages and frameworks, interview preparation, and writing clear code comments.

Don’t forget to validate suggestions, especially in decisive contexts, and combine ChatGPT’s assistance with your decisive thinking and skills for the best results.

How can we provide custom instructions to ChatGPT to get a better response?

When we provide custom instructions to ChatGPT, it means we provide our preferences to ChatGPT that explains who I am, what I want and how I want ChatGPT to respond. It eliminates the need to repeat our preferences for every single question.

We can click on userid from the ChatGPT dashboard, and select the option of custom instructions. It will ask us to provide details of two questions:

1) What would you like ChatGPT to know about you to provide better responses?

In this section, we can provide who I am such as programmer, developer, project manager, project leader, technical architect, language trainer, etc. This way ChatGPT will provide the response which is more relevant to our line of work. For example, we can specify: “I am a software developer working in Java”

2) How would you like ChatGPT to respond?

In this section, we can instruct how formal or casual should ChatGPT be. For example: “Language and tone should be professional and easy to understand”

We can provide the details as applicable and save it. When providing answers to any questions, ChatGPT will take these details into account.