Separate algorithm from object structure.

Overview

Separate algorithm from object structure.

Example 

  // Visitor pattern implementation
interface Abstraction { void operation(); }

Common Use Cases

  • Framework design
  • Extensibility requirements
  • Reducing subclass explosion

Pitfalls to Avoid

  • Over-engineering simple problems
  • Adding unnecessary indirection
  • Strategy pattern
  • Factory pattern
  • SOLID principles

Best Practices

  • Understand when to use visitor versus simpler alternatives
  • Write unit tests covering edge cases and failure paths
  • Follow Java conventions and prefer standard library APIs when available
  • Profile before optimizing — measure impact in your specific workload