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Item 74 of 426 · Year 11: Programming Fundamentals, 28 of 69
Desk checking
Term
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Definition
Manually stepping through an algorithm with sample data and recording variable values (a trace table) to check it works before coding.
Example: A trace table has a column for each variable and a row for each step.
Found in: syllabus, past SDD papers.
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: Outline desk checking
- Code reading: Trace pseudocode
Where it has appeared in the paper
The Software Engineering Project (Part D). Part letters follow each paper’s own layout.
Related past questions
- 2022 Software Design and Development HSC Q28 (6 marks): Desk check and debugging an algorithm The Software Engineering Project (Part D) · 6 marks · old syllabus
- 2023 Software Design and Development HSC Q28 (6 marks): Desk check and debugging (validation) The Software Engineering Project (Part D) · 6 marks · old syllabus
How to use it
A model sentence
“Manually stepping through an algorithm with sample data and recording variable values (a trace table) to check it works before coding.” Then apply it: A trace table has a column for each variable and a row for each step.
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
- Identify: Recognise and name. (2023 Software Design and Development HSC Q28 (6 marks): Desk check and debugging (validation))
Go deeper
- Flashcard: Desk checking in Programming Fundamentals (Year 11) · study that set
- Memorise: Software development steps and algorithm design
- Notes: Debugging tools and error types (The Software Engineering Project (Year 12))
- Master answer: sdd2021-q28 (5 marks, short answer / extended) (Master model answers: The Software Engineering Project (written answers))
- Master answer: sdd2022-q28 (6 marks, short answer / extended) (Master model answers: The Software Engineering Project (written answers))
- Full term page: every question, note and marking comment for Desk checking
Check yourself
Explain “Desk checking” in one sentence, give an example, and name a question type that could test it.
Reveal the answer
Manually stepping through an algorithm with sample data and recording variable values (a trace table) to check it works before coding.
Example: A trace table has a column for each variable and a row for each step.
Could be tested as: Multiple choice, Short answer, Code reading.