Why should the compiler complain? It may be that it isn't initialized until later in your code...
int a;
// bunch of code
a = getValueFromDB();
if (a > 100)
// do stuff
Now what if I change the method and delete every reference to a? Why should the compiler complain?
It is good practice to always initialize your method variables when you define them but it isn't required.
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Tom - SCJP --- Co-Moderator of the Programmer Certification Forums