Actual v expected output

Term

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Definition

Comparing the output the program produced with the output expected; a difference shows an error.

Example: Expected 15, actual 12: logic error.

Found in: syllabus, sample exam and familiarisation guidelines, school notes, past SDD papers.

Where you'll use it in the test

Syllabus area: Y12 SE Project.

Question types it can appear in

Short answer: Define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
Drawing: Draw or label it in the online drawing tool.

Where it has appeared in the paper

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

How to use it

A model sentence

General advice, built from the definition and example above

“Comparing the output the program produced with the output expected; a difference shows an error.” Then apply it: Expected 15, actual 12: logic error.

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

General advice

No linked question shows the command word for this term. Across the past short answer and drawing questions in this bank the words used most are: Explain, Outline, Describe, Compare, Classify, Analyse. Check the actual word in your question.

Official worked answer

Sample exam Q11 (3 marks): Testing (test data) (3 marks): official criteria and sample answer

Criteria

3: Test data that thoroughly tests the algorithm, with expected outputs and reasons. 2: Tests most of the boundaries and paths, with relevant outputs and reasons. 1: Some relevant information.

Sample answer

1024 -> Desktop (boundary check). 768 -> Tablet (boundary check). 100 -> Phone (below lowest screen size check). 850 -> Tablet (between Tablet and Desktop). 2000 -> Desktop (above highest screen size check).

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Go deeper

Flashcard: Actual v expected output in The Software Engineering Project (Year 12) · study that set
Memorise: Quality assurance, testing methods and test data
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Check yourself

Explain “Actual v expected output” in one sentence, give an example, and name a question type that could test it.

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