Trace Tables

What is a trace table?

• Where you use tracing paper to draw a table

• When you copy someone else's table

• A technique used to test algorithms

• A trace table is a mathematical table used in logic which sets out the functional values of logical expressions on each of their functional arguments.

Look at the Algorithm Below. In the corresponding Trace Table, what value should 'A' be?

• 1

• 3

• 5

• 7

Look at the Algorithm Below. In the corresponding Trace Table, what value should 'B' be?

• 1

• 3

• 5

• 7

Look at the Algorithm Below. In the corresponding Trace Table, what value should 'C' be?

• 1

• 3

• 8

• 13

Only valid data inputs are tested

• True

• False

Tests are planned before starting to code

• True

• False

Trace tables are to keep track of who is testing the code

• True

• False

The second reason why trace tables are used is to test the logic of an algorithm if there are (a)   that are not easily spotted.

Look at the Algorithm Below. What is the name of the variable?

(a)  

Which of the following will you use when you dry-run an algorithm?

• A computer

• A list of outputs

• A trace table

• A towel (to make sure you dry run it)