Java — Restrict method access to only other members of the same class

Introduction / Context:
This checks understanding of access modifiers and their scope rules in Java.

Concept / Approach:

• private → accessible only inside the same class.
• protected → accessible in the same package and subclasses.
• default (no modifier) → package-private access.
• public → accessible everywhere.

Step-by-Step:

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• final: restricts inheritance, not access.
• static: relates to class-level association.
• protected: allows subclass and package access, which is broader.
• volatile: applies to variables only, not methods.

Final Answer:
private