java - Partial update in an API -

i have use case in need update of fields of api.
example:
if api updatestudentdetails , input takes is:

name cgpa address hostel name 

here want update name only.
1 way fields , update name , call updatestudentdetails fields. requires 1 read call @ client side prior update call.

other ways are:
1. ask client needs updated. in case api signature might like:

     name      cgpa      address      hostel name      studentdetailstoupdate 

here studentdetailstoupdate list of enums , enum can have values name, cgpa, address, hostel_name. based on enum list provided client can update respective fields.

2. take actions based on field value. in case if cgpa passed null client not want update , if name non-null client wants update.

i not able find major pros , cons in above 2 approaches , seek community’s guidance. bit inclined towards first approach intention clear me , not taking decisions based on field values might possible other language might not have concept of null.

i go second option.

if go first, you'd have write code checking argument needs updated.

what nice option option 3 :) use builder pattern (you can google it's used pattern). way can chain values need updated , update them if aren't null.

you'll like

updatestudentdetails details = new updatestudentsbuilder().withname("tony").withhostelname("some nice hostel").build();