String Compression
Compress a string as character followed by count (basic run-length encoding).
Java String Compression Program
This program helps you to learn the fundamental structure and syntax of Java programming.
import java.util.Scanner;
public class Main {
public static String compress(String s) {
if (s.isEmpty()) return s;
StringBuilder sb = new StringBuilder();
char prev = s.charAt(0);
int count = 1;
for (int i = 1; i < s.length(); i++) {
char c = s.charAt(i);
if (c == prev) {
count++;
} else {
sb.append(prev).append(count);
prev = c;
count = 1;
}
}
sb.append(prev).append(count);
return sb.toString();
}
public static void main(String[] args) {
Scanner sc = new Scanner(System.in);
System.out.print("Enter a string: ");
String s = sc.nextLine();
System.out.println("Compressed: " + compress(s));
sc.close();
}
}Enter a string: aaabbc Compressed: a3b2c1
Understanding String Compression
We count consecutive equal characters and append character+count.
Note: To write and run Java programs, you need to set up the local environment on your computer. Refer to the complete article Setting up Java Development Environment. If you do not want to set up the local environment on your computer, you can also use online IDE to write and run your Java programs.
Practical Learning Notes for String Compression
This Java program is part of the "Module 4: String Programs" topic and is designed to help you build real problem-solving confidence, not just memorize syntax. Start by understanding the goal of the program in plain language, then trace the logic line by line with a custom input of your own. Once you can predict the output before running the code, your understanding becomes much stronger.
A reliable practice pattern is to run the original version first, then modify only one condition or variable at a time. Observe how that single change affects control flow and output. This deliberate style helps you understand loops, conditions, and data movement much faster than copying full solutions repeatedly.
For interview preparation, explain this solution in three layers: the high-level approach, the step-by-step execution, and the time-space tradeoff. If you can teach these three layers clearly, you are ready to solve close variations of this problem under time pressure.