Structure chart

Diagram

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Definition

Shows the separate subroutines that make up a system and their relationship to each other, top-down from the main routine.

Example: Main calls Get Data, Process Data, Display Results.

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

Where you'll use it in the test

Syllabus area: Diagrams and tools.

Question types it can appear in

Drawing: Draw a structure chart (sample Q10, familiarisation Q4)
Short answer: Define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
Multiple choice: Pick the option that matches the definition or example.

Where it has appeared in the paper

The Software Engineering Project (Part B, C, 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

Diagram: “Shows the separate subroutines that make up a system and their relationship to each other, top-down from the main routine.” Then apply it: Main calls Get Data, Process Data, Display Results.

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: Structure chart in Diagrams and Modelling Tools (Years 11 and 12) · study that set
Memorise: Drawing rules: DFD, structure chart, storyboard, decision tree, class diagram, ERD
Notes: Part 3. Where this has been examined (see ../../question_bank.md) (The Software Engineering Project (Year 12))
Notes: Part 3. Where this has been examined (see ../../question_bank.md) (Pseudocode, flowcharts and diagram rules)
Master answer: sdd2023-q27 (10 marks, extended) (Master model answers: The Software Engineering Project (written answers))
Notes: Structure Chart (Pseudocode, flowcharts and diagram rules)
Full term page: every question, note and marking comment for Structure chart

Check yourself

Describe or sketch “Structure chart”: what it shows, its parts and when you would use it.

Reveal the answer