Extract Superclass
Problem
You have two classes with common fields and methods.
Solution
Create a shared superclass for them and move all the identical fields and methods to it.
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Why Refactor
One type of code duplication occurs when two classes perform similar tasks in the same way, or perform similar tasks in different ways. Objects offer a built-in mechanism for simplifying such situations via inheritance. But oftentimes this similarity remains unnoticed until classes are created, necessitating that an inheritance structure be created later.
Benefits
- Code deduplication. Common fields and methods now “live” in one place only.
When Not to Use
- You can not apply this technique to classes that already have a superclass.
How to Refactor
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Create an abstract superclass.
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Use Pull Up Field, Pull Up Method, and Pull Up Constructor Body to move the common functionality to a superclass. Start with the fields, since in addition to the common fields you will need to move the fields that are used in the common methods.
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Look for places in the client code where use of subclasses can be replaced with your new class (such as in type declarations).