Function preconditions in object oriented software

ABSTRACT

Functions in nonobject oriented languages are typically designed to minimize any preconditions which must be satisfied before the function can be legally called. In object oriented languages this prescription can reduce the refinement of the function through derivation. A tradeoff must be made between refinement potential, efficiency, and risk of incorrect usage.

REFERENCES

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INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  D. Software
  D.3 PROGRAMMING LANGUAGES
      D.3.2 Language Classifications
          Subjects: Object-oriented languages

Additional Classification:
  D. Software
  D.3 PROGRAMMING LANGUAGES
      D.3.2 Language Classifications

          Nouns: C++
      D.3.3 Language Constructs and Features
          Subjects: Procedures, functions, and subroutines

  F. Theory of Computation
  F.3 LOGICS AND MEANINGS OF PROGRAMS
      F.3.1 Specifying and Verifying and Reasoning about Programs
          Subjects: Specification techniques; Pre- and post-conditions

General Terms:
Languages, Performance