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Functional requirement
Term Key terms bank Y12 SE Project
Definition
What the system must do (its functions), as opposed to how well it performs.
Example: The system must calculate GST.
Found in: syllabus, 2025 HSC marking guidelines, sample exam and familiarisation guidelines, school notes, past SDD papers.
What the system must do.
Where it is used in the test
Syllabus area: Y12 SE Project.
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.
- Fill in the blanks: Choose this term to complete a statement or table.
No past question in this bank is linked to this term yet. It can still be tested through the question types above.
Study links
- Flashcard: Functional requirement in The Software Engineering Project (Year 12) · study that set
- Memorise: Quality assurance, testing methods and test data
- Key terms bank entry: Functional requirement
- Notes: Define and analyse the requirements of a problem (The Software Engineering Project (Year 12))
- Notes: Define and analyse the requirements of a problem, including demonstrating need(s) or… (The Software Engineering Project (Year 12))
How to use it in an answer
A model sentence
“What the system must do (its functions), as opposed to how well it performs.” Then apply it: The system must calculate GST.
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
No linked question shows the command word for this term. Across the past short answer questions in this bank the words used most are: Explain, Outline, Describe, Compare, Classify, Analyse. Check the actual word in your question.
Technique for the question types
- Multiple choice: Read all four options, rule out wrong ones, pick one; no penalty for guessing so never leave blank.
- Short answer: One clear point per mark, use the stimulus and course terms, and answer the command word.
- Fill in the blanks: Choose the right word from a list; use exact syllabus terms.
Common mistakes
- Use the term exactly as the syllabus words it, then link it to the scenario in the question; the 2025 feedback repeatedly rewards using the stimulus.
- Answer the command word: outline gives main points only, explain gives a reason or cause, discuss gives both sides.
Related terms
Same group in the syllabus: Functional testing · Acceptance testing · Live data · Simulated data · Beta testing · Volume testing · Corrective maintenance · Adaptive maintenance · Perfective maintenance · Driver (test driver)