Which tool listed below is not primarily used to describe processing logic in systems analysis and design?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Data dictionary

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Analysts document both processing logic and data definitions. Process description tools express the flow of decisions and actions so developers and testers can implement and verify behavior. A different class of tools captures the meaning, format, and ownership of data elements. Distinguishing these helps choose the right artifact for the job.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • We must identify the option that is not focused on process logic.
  • Common process tools include pseudocode, decision tables, and structured English.
  • Data dictionaries catalog data elements, not control flow.


Concept / Approach:
Pseudocode outlines algorithms in structured, language-agnostic steps. Decision tables enumerate conditions and actions systematically. Structured English uses restricted grammar to define logic. A data dictionary, by contrast, lists field names, definitions, types, lengths, valid values, sources, and stewardship—vital for consistency but not a process description.


Step-by-Step Solution:

1) Group the options into process-focused versus data-focused artifacts. 2) Recognize that three options describe logic explicitly. 3) Select the data dictionary as the non-process tool.


Verification / Alternative check:
Ask: does this artifact answer 'what to do in each condition?' If not, it is unlikely to be a process description. The data dictionary answers 'what does this data element mean?' instead.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Pseudocode details stepwise processing. Decision tables map combinations of conditions to actions. Structured English conveys logic using controlled vocabulary. Decision trees (if included) visualize branching logic.


Common Pitfalls:
Placing validation rules only in code and not aligning them between decision tables and the data dictionary leads to mismatches.


Final Answer:
Data dictionary.

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