Difference Between Initialization And Instantiation In C#

In this guide, we are going to explore the variance between Initialization and Instantiation in C#. Prior to delving into the variances, it is essential to comprehend Initialization and Instantiation in C# alongside their syntax and illustrations.

What is the Initialization?

In C#, initialization refers to the act of assigning initial values to variables. Before utilizing any variables, it is essential to initialize them with suitable initial values.

Syntax for the initialization:

It has the following syntax:

Example


int variable1 = 100;
String variable2 = "Hello, World";

Some common methods for initialization:

Several popular techniques for initializing variables include:

✅ Constructor Initialization

Example


DateTime currentDate = new DateTime(2024, 3, 19);

✅ Object Initialization

Example


Person person = new Person { Name = "Ramu", Age = 30 };

✅ Collection Initialization

Example


Dictionary<string, int> dictionary = new Dictionary<string, int> { { "One", 1 }, { "Two", 2 } };

✅ Array Initialization

Example


int[] array = new int[] { 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 };

What is the Instantiation?

In C#, object instantiation involves creating an object or instance of a class within the program. During this process, memory is assigned to the objects, and the members of the object are initialized. The newly generated object has access to all the members and member functions within the class, including methods, operators, and fields.

Syntax for the instantiation:

It has the following syntax:

Example


objectName = new className(parameters);

Some common methods of Instantiation:

Several typical techniques for object creation are outlined below:

✅ Utilizing the new keyword

Example


MyClass obj = new MyClass();

✅ Employing clone or copy constructors

Example


MyClass original = new MyClass(10);
MyClass clone = (MyClass)original.Clone();

✅ Using Reflection

Example


Type type = typeof(MyClass);
MyClass obj = (MyClass)Activator.CreateInstance(type);

Example:

Let's consider a C# code example to demonstrate both Initialization and Instantiation.

Example


using System;
class Car {
    public string Make { get; set; }
    public string Model { get; set; }
    public int Year { get; set; }
    // Constructor for initialization
    public Car(string make, string model, int year) {
        Make = make;
        Model = model;
        Year = year;
    }
    public void DisplayDetails() {
        Console.WriteLine("Car Details:");
        Console.WriteLine("Make: " + Make);
        Console.WriteLine("Model: " + Model);
        Console.WriteLine("Year: " + Year);
    }
}
class Program {
    static void Main() {
        // Instantiating Car object and initializing its properties
        Car myCar = new Car("Toyota", "Corolla", 2020);
        // Display car details
        myCar.DisplayDetails();
    }
}

Output:

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Explanation:

In the program mentioned above, it consists of two classes: Main and Car. Within the Car class, there are three variables - two strings and one integer, which are set during the initialization in the constructor. Additionally, this class includes a display method that is responsible for showcasing the variables within the class. Moving on to the Main class, an object is instantiated and assigned specific values to the variables. The creation of this object is known as instantiation. Subsequently, utilizing the object, the DisplayDetails method is invoked to exhibit all the members within the class.