Welcome back! As we continue our Java Journey to the Stars, we're gearing up to better understand Java Variables, our fundamental companions. Like celestial objects, variables illuminate our code, enriching it with data and information.

In simplistic terms, a variable in coding resembles a box — a designated spot in memory where a value can be stored. This lesson aims to break down the concept of Java variables, exploring their definition, the conventions for naming and value assignments, and the idea of constant variables.

Visualize Java variables as tiny boxes filled with data. The short example below demonstrates how a variable is created in Java:

Here, int is the variable's data type (integer number), numberOfStars is the variable's name, and 88 is its value. We will cover data types in the next lesson, so don't worry if the int part is not clear for now.

However, there is a shorter way of doing the same - you can create and assign the variable at the same time. Here is an example:

Just as labeling a box effectively, choosing a name for a Java variable necessitates certain rules and conventions. These ensure that our code remains free of errors and is easy for others to understand.