Better Java method Syntax? Return early or late? [duplicate]

Answer 1

I prefer returning early and avoiding deep nesting. This is particularly true right at the start of the method: test anything that's simple, and get out (or throw an exception) if you can do so really early.

If it's right in the middle of a method, it's more of a judgement call.

Note that I'd refactor your example straight away to use a single if:

boolean validate(DomainObject o) {    
  if (o.property == x || o.property2 == y) {
     return true;
  } ...
  return false; 
}

I realise this was only a toy example, but my point is that it's always worth looking for more ways to simplify your code :)