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gradle-intro

Gradle introduction

Last reviewed May 28, 2026 Content v20260528
Track mode
server_compiled
Means
Compiled runner
Reading
~1 min
Level
intermediate

This lesson

An orientation to the Kotlin track—how the compiled playground works, core vocabulary, and what you will practice next.

You need a clear map of the Kotlin track so null safety, data classes, coroutines, and JVM interop do not feel like magic.

You will apply Gradle introduction in contexts like: Android and JVM library builds with version catalogs and product flavors.

Write Kotlin in main.kt with fun main(), click Run on server—the dev runner kotlinc compiles to a JVM jar and java runs it; use println for output (requires JDK + kotlinc; LEARNING_RUNNER_ENABLED=true). Also read the interview prep blocks.

After the Java track or strong Java experience—Kotlin is designed as a better Java for JVM and Android teams.

Gradle is the standard build system for Kotlin JVM, Android, and KMP projects—like Maven for Java but with Kotlin DSL (build.gradle.kts) and rich plugin ecosystems.

Typical layout

  • settings.gradle.kts — project name and included modules
  • build.gradle.kts — plugins, dependencies, Kotlin JVM target
  • src/main/kotlin — production sources; src/test/kotlin — tests

Common tasks

./gradlew build, test, run (with application plugin). Pin Kotlin and AGP versions in team projects; use version catalogs for large repos.

Important interview questions and answers

  1. Q: Gradle vs Maven?
    A: Both resolve dependencies; Gradle offers flexible Kotlin DSL and incremental builds—default for Android.
  2. Q: What is the wrapper?
    A: gradlew scripts pin Gradle version so CI and developers share the same build tool.

Self-check

  1. Where do main Kotlin sources live in a JVM app?
  2. What file declares included modules?

Tip: Commit the Gradle Wrapper (gradlew) so CI and teammates use the same Gradle version.

Interview prep

build.gradle.kts?

Kotlin DSL for Gradle build scripts.

Wrapper purpose?

Reproducible Gradle version via gradlew.

Interview tip Lesson completion confidence

Can you explain this lesson in 30 seconds without reading notes?

Not saved yet.

Playground

Runs on the configured server runner (dev: npm run runner with LEARNING_RUNNER_ENABLED=true). Output appears below the editor.

Check yourself

Multiple choice — immediate feedback.

Discussion

Past discussion is visible to everyone. Only logged-in users can post comments and replies.

Starter discussion topics

  • build.gradle.kts?
  • Version catalog?

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