Chapter 9 - Formal Methods Concepts of Formal Methods Formal methods applies mathematically based principles, representations, and tools to software engineering. For centuries, bridges were built of wood and stone and were designed by experienced artisans. Today Civil Engineers have a huge background of researched and mathematically sound analysis methods to design structures. Just like learning calculus, formal methods require discipline to learn the language and operation. But also like calculus, one can compute things which are difficult or impossible to measure.
Formal descriptions are unambiguous, too.
Also called correctness by construction. Formal methods require more up-front work, but may greatly reduce testing time and subsequent rework. Interface Larch Proof Systems HOL, LCF, Boyer-Moore, etc. Digest format . A page of Formal Method Sites .