When comparing Effective Java by Joshua Bloch vs exercism.org, the Slant community recommends Effective Java by Joshua Bloch for most people. In the question“What are the best resources to learn Java?” Effective Java by Joshua Bloch is ranked 2nd while exercism.org is ranked 3rd. The most important reason people chose Effective Java by Joshua Bloch is:
The author uses simple and concise language. Even complex subjects are explained in a way that is easy to understand for beginners.
Specs
Ranked in these QuestionsQuestion Ranking
Pros
Pro Clear language
The author uses simple and concise language. Even complex subjects are explained in a way that is easy to understand for beginners.
Pro Covers best practices in great detail
Anyone can learn the syntax and knock up some code, but Effective Java is a series of lessons about best practices. The book teaches how to write good, secure, maintainable code.
Pro Includes good examples
Pro Human review and feedback
Rather than merely test for code correctness, Exercism uses peer review to improve general programming techniques. Users are encouraged to comment on others' solutions, and refine their own based on feedback.
Pro Practice with production tools
Unlike many code practice websites, Exercism requires the user to develop and test entirely offline, submitting only the finished code. This promotes familiarity with essential tools and workflow, not just the bare language.
Cons
Con Not for complete beginners
Effective Java by Josh Bloch is not for the beginner programmer, but more for someone who's migrating to Java or who wants to polish their Java.
Con Custom commandline client
Exercism requires using a CLI utility to fetch and submit exercises. This is inconvenient compared to web-only alternatives, and poses an additional barrier to entry for some users.