CSC/ECE 517 Fall 2007/wiki2 9 kk: Difference between revisions
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The simplest example in programming where the name of a function does not indicate its functionality. | The simplest example in programming where the name of a function does not indicate its functionality. | ||
int add(int a, int b) | |||
{ | { | ||
return (a*a+b*b); | return (a*a+b*b); | ||
} | } | ||
The function above is supposed to add two numbers but actualy returns the sum of squares of the two numbers which would suprise the programmer who is using the function. | The function above is supposed to add two numbers but actualy returns the sum of squares of the two numbers which would suprise the programmer who is using the function. | ||
Revision as of 16:25, 24 October 2007
Principle of Least Astonishment
The principle of least astonishment states that when you are presented with a different outcomes one should always pick the one of least ambiguity or suprise. The principle has applications in a lot of fields. This wiki serves as a guide for the reader to understand more about this principle.
Examples
The simplest example in programming where the name of a function does not indicate its functionality.
int add(int a, int b) {
return (a*a+b*b);
}
The function above is supposed to add two numbers but actualy returns the sum of squares of the two numbers which would suprise the programmer who is using the function.