Which validation check makes sure a value lies between two limits?

range check. For example, a mark between 0 and 100.

Which validation check makes sure a field is not left empty?

presence check. Something must be entered.

Which validation check would make sure a date is entered as DD/MM/YYYY?

format check. It tests the pattern of the characters.

What is a data capture form used for?

collecting data to be entered into a system. It can be on paper or on screen.

What can validation not do?

check that the data is correct. Sensible data can still be wrong.

The systems life cycle: design · Cambridge IGCSE Information & Communication Technology

In plain words

With the requirements known, the new system is planned on paper before anything is built: what data it will hold, how the data gets in, what comes out, and how wrong data is kept out.

5 things to know

File and data structures: for each field the designer sets a field name, a data type, a field length, and where useful a code, such as M and F for male and female. Coding saves storage and typing, and reduces errors.
Input formats: data capture forms, on paper or on screen. A good form has clear instructions, boxes for each character, tick boxes or drop-down lists where possible, and a logical order.
Output formats: screen layouts and printed report layouts, designed to be clear for the people who will read them.
Validation routines check that data being entered is sensible.
Range check: within limits. Length check: the right number of characters. Type check: the right kind of data. Character check: only the allowed characters. Format check: follows a pattern. Presence check: not left empty. Check digit: an extra digit calculated from the others.

Worked example

A field stores a learner's year group, which must be a whole number from 7 to 13. Which validation checks should be used?

A type check, so that only a whole number is accepted.
A range check, so that the number is from 7 to 13.
A presence check, so that the field is not left empty.

Tips and tricks

Validation checks that data is reasonable. It cannot check that data is correct: 9 typed for a learner in year 8 passes every check.
Name the check and say what it would test, using the data in the question.

5 questions, about 2 minutes.

It lands in your notebook with its questions as flashcards.

The systems life cycle: design: 5 questions and answers

These are the quiz’s questions. Do the quiz first, then come back here for the ones that got you.

Which validation check makes sure a value lies between two limits?
- length check
- range check (the answer)
- format check
- presence check
For example, a mark between 0 and 100.
Which validation check makes sure a field is not left empty?
- type check
- range check
- presence check (the answer)
- check digit
Something must be entered.
Which validation check would make sure a date is entered as DD/MM/YYYY?
- range check
- presence check
- length check
- format check (the answer)
It tests the pattern of the characters.
What is a data capture form used for?
- displaying output
- collecting data to be entered into a system (the answer)
- validating data
- storing data permanently
It can be on paper or on screen.
What can validation not do?
- check that a field is not empty
- check that data is in a range
- check that the data is correct (the answer)
- check that data has the right number of characters
Sensible data can still be wrong.

5 questions

Tap an answer and you’ll see straight away whether it’s right, and why.

Worksheet

2 questions, 5 marks. Write your answers on paper, then check them.

The systems life cycle: design

Cambridge IGCSE Information & Communication Technology 0417 · 5 marks · papermunch.org

Name ______________________________ Date ______________

A field holds a product code that is always two letters followed by four digits, such as AB1234. Name three validation checks that could be used.[3]
Show answerHide answer
A format check (two letters then four digits). A length check (exactly six characters). A presence check (the field is not left blank).
I got this one
Give two reasons for coding data, such as using M and F for gender.[2]
Show answerHide answer
It takes less storage space. It is quicker to enter, with fewer mistakes.
I got this one

Answers: The systems life cycle: design

1. A format check (two letters then four digits). A length check (exactly six characters). A presence check (the field is not left blank).
2. It takes less storage space. It is quicker to enter, with fewer mistakes.