Decision tables in software specification Which statement is NOT true about decision tables as a way to specify complex logic?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: A decision table is directly understood by the computer

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Decision tables are a compact way to represent complex conditional logic. Analysts and testers use them to ensure complete coverage of combinations and to communicate requirements clearly between stakeholders and developers.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Decision tables express conditions and actions in tabular form.
  • They are human-readable artifacts for design and testing.
  • They may be translated into executable code but are not inherently executable.


Concept / Approach:

Decision tables aid clarity and maintainability. However, they are specification formats, not programming languages. Computers do not “directly” execute a generic decision table unless a specialized rule engine or generator translates it into code or an executable rule set first.



Step-by-Step Solution:

Evaluate “easy to modify”: Generally true—changing a column/row updates a single rule.Evaluate “easy to understand”: True—conditions and actions are visually aligned.Evaluate “directly understood by the computer”: False in general; needs translation or tooling.Pick the statement that is not true: the one claiming direct computer understanding.


Verification / Alternative check:

In practice, teams convert decision tables into if-else chains, switch-case logic, lookup tables, or rule engine configurations before execution.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Options a and c describe recognized benefits. “All of the above” cannot be correct because one statement is false. “None of the above” is also incorrect because there is indeed one false statement.



Common Pitfalls:

Assuming a modeling notation implies executability; overlooking the need for traceable conversion to code or tests.



Final Answer:

A decision table is directly understood by the computer.

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