Data dictionary

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Definition

Data dictionary Y12 SE Project Term

A table listing each data item with its name, data type, size or format, description and validation rules.

Example: Age | Integer | 0-120.

Found in: syllabus, course specifications, school notes.

Data dictionary (specification) Diagrams and tools Diagram

Describes every variable: name, data type, format for display, size in bytes, size for display, description, example and validation rules.

Found in: course specifications, 2025 HSC marking guidelines, school notes, past SDD papers.

Short version to memorise (key terms bank)

Table describing every variable (type, format, size, description, example, validation).

Where you'll use it in the test

Syllabus area: Y12 SE Project Diagrams and tools.

Question types it can appear in

Drawing: Data dictionary: Complete a data dictionary Data dictionary (specification): Complete a data dictionary (2025 Q15a)
Multiple choice: Pick the option that matches the definition or example.
Short answer: Define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
Fill in the blanks: Choose this term to complete a statement or table.

Where it has appeared in the paper

The Software Engineering Project (Part A, D). Part letters follow each paper’s own layout.

How to use it

A model sentence

General advice, built from the definition and example above

“A table listing each data item with its name, data type, size or format, description and validation rules.” Then apply it: Age | Integer | 0-120.

In a short answer, give the definition in your own words first, then tie it to the situation in the question. Do not copy the example above unless it fits the scenario.

Command words used with it

From the linked past questions

Explain: Relate cause and effect; make the relationship between things evident; provide why and/or how. (2024 Software Design and Development HSC Q25 (4 marks): Documentation)

Go deeper

Flashcard: Data dictionary in The Software Engineering Project (Year 12) · study that set
Flashcard: Data dictionary (specification) in Diagrams and Modelling Tools (Years 11 and 12) · study that set
Memorise: Define and analyse the requirements of a problem
Memorise: Drawing rules: DFD, structure chart, storyboard, decision tree, class diagram, ERD
Key terms bank entry: Data dictionary
Notes: Part 3. Where this has been examined (see ../../question_bank.md) (The Software Engineering Project (Year 12))
Full term page: every question, note and marking comment for Data dictionary

Check yourself

Explain “Data dictionary” in one sentence, give an example, and name a question type that could test it.

Reveal the answer

Data dictionary: A table listing each data item with its name, data type, size or format, description and validation rules.