7B: understanding source code

Question 1

difference between developing software + maintaining existing software

Answer 1

the need to understand existing solution

Question 2

how can documentation assist in understanding source code

Answer 2

source of info to assist interpretation
- algorithm: means of understanding logic of solution

Question 3

benefits of reading original documentation

Answer 3

can help understand inputs, variable types, processes, outputs
- modifications: may alter logic of code, therefore documentation should reflect that

Question 4

creating algorithms from source code

Answer 4

done when original algorithms unavailable
- can help understanding of program

Question 5

main steps in creating algorithms from source code

Answer 5

1. identifying control structures
2. understanding variable uses

Question 6

identifying control structures

Answer 6

for structured techniques: very straightforward
for non-standard control structures: use flowchart + modify to be standard once flow/logic understood

Question 7

understanding variables which have been used

Answer 7

to understand: purpose of each variable, how processing achieves purpose
- name of identifier should give clue on its function