Method overloading is determined at compile time. This is also known as compile-time polymorphism or static polymorphism. During compilation, the compiler decides which overloaded method to call based on the number, types, and order of the parameters in the method signature. The decision is made before the program runs, not at runtime.

Explanation of Method Overloading Determination

• Method overloading allows multiple methods in the same class to have the same name but different parameter lists (different number, types, or order of parameters).
• The compiler distinguishes overloaded methods based on these parameters to resolve which method to invoke during a call.
• This resolution happens before runtime , during compilation, to ensure that method calls are properly linked to their corresponding method definitions.

Why at Compile Time?

• It improves performance because the method call is resolved early, avoiding the overhead of deciding which method to call at runtime.
• It aligns with static typing principles in languages like Java, where types and method signatures are checked during compilation.
• Unlike overriding (which deals with polymorphism at runtime), overloading applies to methods that are truly different due to their parameters, hence the compiler can make a clear decision at compile time.

This compile-time determination makes method overloading a form of early binding or static polymorphism.