prefer_conditional_assignment

Prefer using ??= over testing for null.

PREFER using ??= over testing for null.

As Dart has the ??= operator, it is advisable to use it where applicable to improve the brevity of your code.

BAD:

String get fullName {
  if (_fullName == null) {
    _fullName = getFullUserName(this);
  }
  return _fullName;
}

GOOD:

String get fullName {
  return _fullName ??= getFullUserName(this);
}

To enable the prefer_conditional_assignment rule, add prefer_conditional_assignment under linter > rules in your analysis_options.yaml file:

linter:
  rules:
    - prefer_conditional_assignment

If you're instead using the YAML map syntax to configure linter rules, add prefer_conditional_assignment: true under linter > rules:

linter:
  rules:
    prefer_conditional_assignment: true

Unless stated otherwise, the documentation on this site reflects Dart 3.6.0. Page last updated on 2025-01-27. View source or report an issue.