Last Updated on November 30th, 2023

Undoubtedly, ChatGPT has gained a popularity during the early days of its launch. It is very helpful in getting your task done promptly irrespective of the area or industry you belong to. Similarly, Bard (A Google Product) is gaining the popularity day by day to become useful for everybody. It is a very handy tool for developers and programmers as well.

Some experts in the industry observed that the Bard provides better responses to Developers and Programmers in terms of explanation & authenticity. Therefore, it becomes important to know its capabilities for developers and programmers.

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

What is Google Bard?

Google Bard is a large language model (LLM) chatbot developed by Google AI. It is powered by PaLM, a neural network architecture trained on a huge dataset of text and code. Bard can generate different creative text formats, like code, emails, letters, poems, scripts, musical pieces, tutorials, etc., and answer your questions in an informative way. It is still under development, but it has learned to perform many kinds of tasks.

How to utilize Google Bard for Developers and Programmers?

Google Bard can help us in various ways when it comes to writing code. We can take help of it on completing 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 Google Bard can help with coding and topics about coding, but it is still experimental and you are responsible for your use of code or coding explanations. So you should use discretion and carefully test and review all code for errors, bugs, and vulnerabilities before relying on it. Code may also be subject to an open source license and Bard provides related information

How to use Google Bard?

Open your favorite browser and search for ‘google bard’ or go through the direct link of Bard(bard.google.com) and follow the instructions to Sign in with your already existing Google account. If you don’t have any account, you may be asked to create an account. Once sign up is done, you will see a chat window to start chatting with it.

Use Google Bard to Write the Code 

With the help of Bard, we can write code for specific tasks or problems. We just need to tell 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 using Bard:

Google Bard Prompt

 I have a list of employees, where each Employee object contains attributes such as id, name, department, and salary. My objective is to arrange this list in descending order based on salary and display the sorted results in the console. Could you provide me an example Java 8 code snippet to accomplish this task?

Response from Google Bard

Use Google Bard 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 Google Bard without having the essential environment to run the code. Let’s do an exercise.

Google Bard Prompt

I have a piece of code. Could you provide me with the resulting output?

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(5,6,9,14,17);

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

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

Response from Google Bard

Use Google Bard to Debug the Code

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

Let’s provide a buggy code to Google Bard and see what it will suggest us about a possible mistake and it’s resolution.

Google Bard Prompt

I am sharing a Java code snippet with you. It’s possible that this code contains some errors/bugs. Would you be able to troubleshoot it and recommend a solution?

public class ExampleWithBug {
   public static void main(String[] args) {
      int[] numbers = {11, 24, 35, 44, 58};
      int sum = 0;
      for (int i = 1; i <= numbers.length; i++) {
         sum += numbers[i];
      }
      System.out.println("Sum of numbers: " + sum);
   }
}

Response from Google Bard

 

Use Google Bard to Understand the Existing Code 

Google Bard can be a valuable resource for understanding complex code and algorithms. Additionally, it provides clarifications and explanations for complex code. It can assist us in getting a deeper understanding of code functionality and its applicability to our own projects.

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

Google Bard Prompt

Can you explain the purpose of this code in basic terms? I am new to Java programming and expect a simple explanation.

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);
}

Response from Google Bard

Please notice here that the Bard has also explained how to apply this method with an example that we have not asked for.

Use Google Bard to Migrate the Code

Google Bard can assist in migrating code from lower versions to higher versions. We can input our code and receive the enhanced version as the output.

Let’s input a code snippet to Google Bard and ask for converting it to higher version of the language.

Google Bard Prompt

I am sharing a Java code snippet with you that is written in Java 7. Would it be possible for you to provide an equivalent version of this code using Java 8?

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

public class Example_Java7 {
    public static void main(String[] args) {
        List<Integer> numbers = Arrays.asList(5,9,10,16,25);

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

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

Response from Google Bard

Here is a breakdown of the Java 8 code snippet:

// Filter the list of numbers to only include even numbers
List<Integer> evenNumbers = numbers.stream()
                 .filter(number -> number % 2 == 0)
                 .collect(Collectors.toList());

The stream() method converts the list of numbers to a stream.
The filter() method filters the stream to only include elements
that match the specified condition. In this case, the condition
is that the number is even.
The collect() method collects the filtered stream into a list.
I hope this helps!

Use Google Bard to Learn a Programming Language

Google Bard can also assist us in the process of learning a new programming language. For example, let’s  instruct Bard to provide knowledge of the Java language.

Google Bard Prompt

I am new to programming and interested in learning Java. Could you provide some guidance on how I should get started?

Response from Google Bard

Sure, here are some tips on how to get started with learning Java:

1) Choose a good learning resource: There are many books, online
tutorials, and courses available for learning Java. Choose a 
resource that is well-written and easy to follow.

2) Start with the basics: Before you dive into writing complex
programs, it is important to learn the basics of the Java 
programming language. This includes topics such as variables,
data types, operators, control flow, and methods.

3) Practice regularly: The best way to learn Java is by practicing
regularly. Try to write some simple programs each day to get a
better understanding of the language.

4) Use a debugger: A debugger is a tool that can help you find and
fix errors in your code. Most Java development environments 
(IDEs) come with a built-in debugger.

5) Don't be afraid to ask for help. If you get stuck, don't be 
afraid to ask for help from a friend, classmate, or online 
forum. There are many people who are willing to help beginners
learn Java.

Here are some additional tips that may be helpful:

1) Find a community of Java developers: There are many online and
offline communities where you can connect with other Java d
developers. This can be a great way to learn new things, ask
for help, and get feedback on your code.

2) Contribute to open source projects: Once you have a good 
understanding of Java, you can start contributing to open 
source projects. This is a great way to gain experience working
on real-world code and to learn from other developers.

3) Build your own projects: The best way to learn Java is by 
building your own projects. This will give you a chance 
to put your skills to the test and to learn new things 
along the way.

Learning Java can be challenging, but it is also very rewarding. 
By following these tips, you can get started on the path to 
becoming a Java developer.

I hope this helps!

Use Google Bard to Learn a feature of the Programming Language

At times, we may forget certain concepts or features of a programming language. Google Bard can help us as a valued resource for refreshing our understanding of specific features or topics.

Google Bard Prompt

Java 17 has introduced a new feature called ‘sealed.’ Could you please explain it in a straightforward way with an example? Keep in mind that I’m new to Java

Response from Google Bard

Sure. Sealed classes are a new feature in Java 17 that allow you
to control which classes can extend a given class. This can be 
useful for enforcing certain rules on your code, such as ensuring
that all subclasses of a class implement certain methods or have
certain properties.

To create a sealed class, you use the sealed keyword. You can 
then use the permits keyword to specify which classes are allowed 
to extend the sealed class. For example, the following code creates 
a sealed class called Shape with two permitted subclasses, 
Circle and Square:

sealed class Shape permits Circle, Square{
// ...
}

Now, only the Circle and Square classes can extend the Shape class. 
Any other attempt to extend Shape will result in a compile-time error.

Sealed classes can be used to enforce a variety of rules on your code.
For example, you could use sealed classes to:

1) Create a hierarchy of classes that represent different types of 
data, such as shapes, numbers, or dates. This can help to ensure
that your code is consistent and that all subclasses implement 
the same methods.

2) Create a set of classes that represent different states of a system,
such as the different states of a vending machine or a traffic light.
This can help to prevent your code from entering into invalid states.

3)Create a set of classes that represent different types of errors.
This can help you to handle errors in a consistent way and to provide
more informative error messages to your users.

Here is an example of how sealed classes can be used to enforce certain
rules on your code:



Sealed classes can be a powerful tool for enforcing certain rules on your
code. However, it is important to use them carefully to avoid making your
code too restrictive.

Use Google Bard to Comment & Document the Code

In a developer’s journey, adding comments to code can be quite boring. However, it’s essential to have well-commented code, especially in production environments. Remarkably, Google Bard implicitly generates code that is full with comments. If we ever need to include comments in our code, we can take help of Google Bard. Let’s explore this further through an exercise.

Google Bard Prompt

I will share a Java code snippet with you. Please consider adding comments wherever necessary to ensure that even a beginner programmer can easily understand the code.

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());
   }
}

Response from Google Bard 

Sure, here is the code snippet you provided with comments:

The synchronized methods in the SharedResource class ensure that the counter 
is only incremented by one thread at a time. This prevents the counter from 
becoming corrupted. The main() method of the SynchronizationExample class creates two threads that will increment the counter. The threads are started and then the main thread waits for them to finish before printing the final value of the counter. This code snippet demonstrates how to use synchronized methods to protect shared resources. This is important because it can help to prevent race conditions and other errors.

Use Google Bard to Translate the Code in Another Language

If there’s a requirement to convert a code snippet from one programming language to another, Google Bard can help us in this task. Let’s give it a try with an example.

Google Bard Prompt

I will share a Java code snippet with you. You have to convert that into Python Language. 

public static String checkGrade(double percentage) {
    
    if (percentage > 60) { 
         return "Grade A"; 
    } else if (percentage > 45) {
         return "Grade B"; 
    } else if (percentage > 35) {
         return "Grade C"; 
    } else { 
         return "Fail"; // Below 35%, the student fails. 
    }
 }

Response from Google Bard

 

Use Google Bard to Prepare for the Job Interviews

Google Bard can help you in preparing for job interviews in various ways:

• Help you brush up on your Programming skills: Google Bard can answer any programming related questions you have and help you understand complex concepts. It can also provide you with practice coding challenges.
• Help you prepare for common interview questions: It can tell you about the types of questions that are commonly asked in job interviews and help you practice answering them.
• Help you develop your soft skills: It can help you develop your communication skills, problem-solving skills, and teamwork skills.
• Provide you with a list of common interview questions and answers: Apart from providing common interview questions, it can also help you practice answering these questions.
• Review your code and provide feedback. It can help you identify any areas where your code could be improved.
• Help you prepare for whiteboard coding interviews. It can provide you tips on how to approach whiteboard coding problems and help you practicing them.
• Give you feedback on your mock interviews. It can listen to your mock interviews and give you feedback on your performance.
• Help you with your resume and cover letter. It can help you to review your resume and cover letter to ensure that they are fitted to jobs and that they emphasize your relevant skills and experience.
• Researching companies: It can help you to research companies that are hiring respective developers and to identify the specific jobs that you are interested in.
• Preparing for behavioral interview questions: It can help you prepare for behavioral interview questions by providing you with a list of common questions and tips for answering them efficiently.

Although Google Bard is still under development, but it is learning new things every day. It can provide you a good assistance to prepare for job interviews and to achieve your career goals.

Find out the specific areas where you need to concentrate on for your future interviews. This could comprise data structures, algorithms, coding challenges, system design, or individual technologies. Let’s start by asking Bard conceptual questions related to the topics you are searching. For example, you can ask about data structures like linked lists, binary trees, or hash tables, or algorithms like sorting and searching etc.

Ask Bard to explain difficult concepts, algorithms, or design patterns. This helps you obtain a greater understanding and the capability to explain these topics throughout the interviews. Utilize Bard to produce coding challenges or ask for resolutions to common coding problems. Practice answering these challenges on your own and compare your solutions with those provided by the Bard.

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 how to utilize ChatGPT, kindly visit: ChatGPT for Developers & Programmers.

FAQ

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

No, we can’t fully rely upon Bard. We need to have essential knowledge of the programming to validate the code generated by it. We can’t trust blindly on it to get our task done. Bard is still experimental and you are liable for your use of code or coding explanations. So you should carefully verify and review all code at your end before relying on it.

How should we use Google Bard to be a better developer?

We have already discussed several ways to utilize Bard 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. Google Bard 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 Google Bard’s assistance with your strongminded thinking and skills for the best results.

Can Bard generate code for any programming language?

Bard can generate code in a variety of programming languages, including Python, Java, C++, and JavaScript. However, it is still under development, so it may not be able to generate code for all programming languages or for all types of code. You need to ask Bard your query. If it is unable to provide response, it will inform you about it’s limitations accordingly.

Can Bard help me refactor my code?

Yes, Bard can help you refactor your code. Bard can identify areas where your code can be improved, and it can also generate code for you that implements the suggested improvements.

Here are some specific examples of how you can use Bard to refactor your code:

1) If you want to improve the readability of your code, you can ask Bard to identify areas where your code can be simplified.

2) If you want to improve the performance of your code, you can ask Bard to identify areas where your code can be optimized.

3) If you want to make your code more reusable, you can ask Bard to identify areas where your code can be extracted into functions or classes.