Top-down design

Term

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Definition

Starting with the whole problem (the mainline) and refining it step by step into smaller subroutines.

Example: A structure chart shows top-down design.

Found in: syllabus, school notes.

Where you'll use it in the test

Syllabus area: Y11 Programming Fundamentals.

Question types it can appear in

Multiple choice: Pick the option that matches the definition or example.
Short answer: Define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
Drawing: structure chart

Where it has appeared in the paper

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

How to use it

A model sentence

General advice, built from the definition and example above

“Starting with the whole problem (the mainline) and refining it step by step into smaller subroutines.” Then apply it: A structure chart shows top-down design.

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.

Go deeper

Flashcard: Top-down design in Programming Fundamentals (Year 11) · study that set
Memorise: Software development steps and algorithm design
Notes: Modelling tools: DFD, structure charts, storyboards, flowcharts, class diagrams (The Software Engineering Project (Year 12))
Full term page: every question, note and marking comment for Top-down design

Check yourself

Explain “Top-down design” in one sentence, give an example, and name a question type that could test it.

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