Scala 3 Enums and ADTs Let Developers Eliminate Invalid States at Compile Time
Algebraic Data Types (ADTs) in Scala 3 offer a way to encode domain constraints directly into the type system, preventing invalid data combinations from ever being constructed. Traditional case classes using optional fields and status strings allow nonsensical states — such as a simultaneously pending, paid, and cancelled order — that the compiler cannot catch. By modelling each order lifecycle stage as a separate enum case with only its relevant fields, Scala 3 makes invalid states literally unrepresentable. Pattern matching over such enums is exhaustive, meaning the compiler also warns developers when a newly added case is not handled across the codebase. This approach shifts validation from runtime logic and developer discipline to compile-time guarantees, reducing the risk of subtle data bugs reaching production.
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