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Polymorphism as a Refactoring Solution

publish date: 2026/06/24 21:27:37.851072 UTC

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In object-oriented languages, what technique can often replace scattered switch (case) statements that depend on an object's type?

Converting all switch statements into global variables

Removing all conditional logic from the entire program permanently

Polymorphism, where different subclasses provide their own implementation of a common operation

Increasing the number of switch statements to make the logic more explicit

Correct Answer

Polymorphism, where different subclasses provide their own implementation of a common operation

Explanation

In object-oriented languages, polymorphism can often replace switch (case) statements that depend on the type of a value. Instead of one large switch statement scattered across the program, each subclass implements its own version of the behavior, reducing duplication and improving maintainability.

Reference

Software Engineering, Ian Sommerville, 10th edition

Quizzes you can take where this question appears

Refactoring - Preventative Maintenance