How is an abstract class utilized in programming?

An abstract class serves as a blueprint for other classes and is utilized primarily to provide common functionality for derived classes. By defining an abstract class, a programmer can specify methods that derived classes must implement, while also allowing shared code – such as instance variables and concrete methods – to exist in the abstract class. This promotes code reuse and establishes a clear structure for a class hierarchy, enabling polymorphism and ensuring that each derived class adheres to a contract defined by the abstract class. It facilitates the organization and maintenance of related classes in a meaningful way, allowing for the abstraction of common behavior without dictating the specific implementation details of each subclass. Thus, abstract classes are essential in object-oriented programming for achieving a balance between common functionality and specific implementation.