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Minification
Term Key terms bank Y12 Programming for the Web
Definition
Removing unnecessary characters (spaces, comments) from HTML, CSS and JavaScript to shrink the files.
Example: Minify the CSS to cut load time.
Found in: school notes.
Removing unnecessary characters from code to reduce file size.
Where it is used in the test
Syllabus area: Y12 Programming for the Web.
Question types it can appear in
- Short answer: Define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
- Multiple choice: Pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Fill in the blanks: Choose this term to complete a statement or table.
Where it has appeared in the paper
Programming for the Web (Part A). Part letters follow each paper’s own layout.
Related past questions
- 2025 HSC Q16b (3 marks): Load times Programming for the Web (Part A) · 3 marks
These are the questions the flashcard set links to this term. Open each one and compare your answer with its marking criteria.
Study links
- Flashcard: Minification in Programming for the Web (Year 12) · study that set
- Memorise: Web development system: front end, back end, databases
- Key terms bank entry: Minification
- Notes: Methods to support and manage load times (Programming for the Web (Year 12))
- Notes: Investigate methods to support and manage the load times of web pages/applications. (Programming for the Web (Year 12))
How to use it in an answer
A model sentence
“Removing unnecessary characters (spaces, comments) from HTML, CSS and JavaScript to shrink the files.” Then apply it: Minify the CSS to cut load time.
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
- Outline: Sketch in general terms; indicate the main features of. (2025 HSC Q16b (3 marks): Load times)
Technique for the question types
- Short answer: One clear point per mark, use the stimulus and course terms, and answer the command word.
- Multiple choice: Read all four options, rule out wrong ones, pick one; no penalty for guessing so never leave blank.
- Fill in the blanks: Choose the right word from a list; use exact syllabus terms.
What the marking guidelines and feedback say
Marker feedback: give ways to MINIMISE load times, not ways to investigate load times.
Worked answers from the marking guidelines
2025 HSC Q16b (3 marks): Load times (3 marks): criteria and sample answer
Criteria
3: Outlines TWO ways, other than a PWA, to minimise load time. 2: Outlines ONE way, OR identifies TWO ways. 1: Some relevant information.
Sample answer
One way would be to provide the option to select lower resolution images or text only display. Another way would be to utilise caching as this would provide high speed access to commonly requested weather data.
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: W3C and WAI · Client-side (front-end) programming · Server-side (back-end) programming · SQL and non-SQL databases · Web browser and developer (dev) tools · Cascading style sheets (CSS) · CSS selectors (id v class) · CSS maintenance tools · Code libraries and frameworks (front end) · Open-source software · Version control · Load times · Lazy loading · Caching