please explain 'static'

[Shilpa Jain]

class example
{
public static void main(String args[])
{
static int h = 8;
System.out.println(h);
}
}
When I compile this program, it gives an comilation error:
Statement expected : static int h = 8;
Identifier expected: System.out.println(h);
Can anyone please explain this?
Thankx
Shilpa Jain

[SathishVJ]

Hi Shilpa,
You cannot assign the static modifier and access permissions like private, protected, public etc. to variables within a local method. These are applicable only to class variables.
If you want to print h which is defined within the static method main(), you need not declare h as static. A simple 'int h =0;' will do.
Regds
Sathish

[Shilpa Jain]

Thanks a lot Satish

[softie]

Hi Satish,
Thanks for the reply.. You seem to be having all Java basics and fundamentals on your finger tips man..
Can you suggest some books and advices so that i too can become confident and good in Java
Cheers
Venu