Stupid Java question, why isnt switch working outside of the main method?

[Mancora]

ok, after i cut out all of the inside stuff heres where im getting the error

class Switchtest {
    switch(5) {
        default:
            System.out.println("p");
    } 
}

That should be valid right? Well heres the error im getting

d:\prog\java>javac switch.java
switch.java:4: illegal start of type
    switch(5) {
    ^
switch.java:7: <identifier> expected
    }
     ^
2 errors

d:\prog\java>

The second error is due to the first one, since its not recongizing switch, though WHY? When i add in the main method it compiles just fine.

class Switchtest {
    public static void main(String[] args) {
        switch(5) {
            default:
                System.out.println("p");
        } 
    }   
}

I should be using the 1.4.2 Java SDK

[anfpunk]

You class file doesn't have a constructor or method or anything. You class files have to have some sort of method.

[EverlastingGod]

Originally posted by anfpunk
You class files have to have some sort of method.

No, they don't.

class MyClass
{
}

is valid.

However, the point I think you're trying to make is correct... the switch statement must be in a constructor, method or static initializer.

[anfpunk]

You are very correct. That is a common way of satisfying classes and methods that haven't been written yet. I need to be more careful is how I say things.

[Mancora]

thanks

<--- the dangers of taking first java class last fall, not practicing it for a year, and expecting to be perfect.