What are common mistakes developers make with custom exceptions?

Custom exceptions in Java are a powerful feature but can lead to common pitfalls if not used correctly. Here are several mistakes developers often make when creating and utilizing custom exceptions:

• Not Extending the Right Class: Developers often forget to extend from a specific exception class, making it hard to catch specific types of exceptions later.
• Using Custom Exceptions for Control Flow: Custom exceptions should not be used for regular control flow operations; they should represent exceptional conditions.
• Not Providing Useful Messages: When creating custom exceptions, leaving out meaningful error messages can hinder debugging. Always include relevant information.
• Neglecting Serialization: If custom exceptions are to be serialized, developers must ensure that they implement the Serializable interface.
• Overusing Custom Exceptions: Creating too many custom exceptions for every minor issue can lead to code bloat and confusion. Use them judiciously.
• Failing to Document Custom Exceptions: Documentation is key. If custom exceptions are not documented, their purpose and usage can be unclear for other developers.