CSC/ECE 517 Fall 2007/wiki2 9 kk: Difference between revisions

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== Examples ==
== Examples ==
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)
{
{
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 16:29, 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.


Application in Programming

Applications in Other Fields