2.3 - Producing Robust Programs

Question 1

Define ‘Syntax Error’ and give an example.

Answer 1

An error that breaks the grammatical rules of a programming language and prevents it from running, such as misspelling a keyword like print.

Question 2

Define ‘Logic Error’.

Answer 2

An error where the program runs but produces incorrect or unexpected output.

Question 3

Explain the difference between ‘Iterative’ and ‘Final’ testing.

Answer 3

Iterative testing happens during development as modules are completed, while final testing occurs at the end of production before release.

Question 4

Define ‘Normal’, ‘Boundary’, and ‘Invalid’ test data.

Answer 4

Normal data is valid and expected; boundary data is at the edge of valid limits; invalid data is the wrong type or outside limits and should be rejected.

Question 5

List four ways to improve the ‘Maintainability’ of program code.

Answer 5

Use comments, meaningful identifiers, proper indentation, and subroutines to modularise code.