Algebraic specification
Okay kiddo, do you remember when you learned about adding and subtracting numbers? Well, Algebraic Specification is kind of like that, but for big computer programs!
You know how when you add or subtract numbers, you have to follow certain rules like putting the numbers in a line and carrying over numbers to the next column? Similarly, when you write a program, you have to follow certain rules so the computer understands what you want it to do.
With Algebraic Specification, we use math to make sure we're following all the rules. We use things called equations to describe how different parts of the program work together.
For example, if we wanted to make a program that lets you multiply two numbers together, we might write an equation that says "when you multiply a number by zero, the answer is always zero."
These equations help us make sure our program is correct, and they're easy to understand because they use math symbols that we already know from school, like plus, minus, and equals.
You know how when you add or subtract numbers, you have to follow certain rules like putting the numbers in a line and carrying over numbers to the next column? Similarly, when you write a program, you have to follow certain rules so the computer understands what you want it to do.
With Algebraic Specification, we use math to make sure we're following all the rules. We use things called equations to describe how different parts of the program work together.
For example, if we wanted to make a program that lets you multiply two numbers together, we might write an equation that says "when you multiply a number by zero, the answer is always zero."
These equations help us make sure our program is correct, and they're easy to understand because they use math symbols that we already know from school, like plus, minus, and equals.
Related topics others have asked about: