JUnit in Action, Third Edition

appendix C. IDEs

Theoretically, developing Java programs is possible with the help of a simple editor, while compiling and executing can be done at the command line. Practically, this process represents a significant burden and is extremely time consuming. You would have to struggle with the infrastructure and with tedious activities, instead of focusing on writing code.

There still may be some benefit to writing code without an IDE--for learning purposes. Writing very simple applications consisting of one or two short classes and compiling and executing them through the command line may be an excellent introduction for a new Java programmer. Otherwise, you should take advantage of all the benefits of comfortably working with your favorite ...