Effective Java 60 Favor the use of standard exceptions

Benefits to reuse preexisting exceptions

1. It makes your API easier to learn and use.
2. Programs using your API are easier to read.
3. Fewer exception classes mean a smaller memory footprint and less time spent loading classes.

Common Exceptions

Exception	Occasion for Use
IllegalArgumentException	Non-null parameter value is inappropriate
IllegalStateException	Object state is inappropriate for method invocation
NullPointerException	Parameter value is null where prohibited
IndexOutOfBoundsException	Index parameter value is out of range
ConcurrentModificationException	Concurrent modification of an object has been detected where it is prohibited
UnsupportedOperationException	Object does not support method

Principle

1. Reuse must be based on semantics, not just on name.
2. Also, feel free to subclass an existing exception if you want to add a bit more failure-capture information (Item 63).