Summary

Formal Specification Using Z: A Modelling Approach is designed to provide a practical introduction to formal specification, explaining use of mathematically based techniques for specifying software systems in the formal specification language, Z. Of particular note is the text's concentration on the process of developing a specification and the clear distinction made between the process of constructing a mathematical model and the translation of that model into formal notation. The process of developing the specification is explained through the exploration of alternative mathematical models and the book emphasizes equally both model building and the use of a formal notation, in this case Z. Divided into four parts, Formal Specification Using Z begins by introducing the need for formal specification and discusses the general issue of modelling. Part two presents a selection of the basic mathematical tools and applies these to a number of modelling examples. Extended examples are presented in the third part of the book whilst part four places formal specification in the context of formal methods. Formal Specification Using Z: A Modelling Approach is ideal for computer science and software engineering students studying a first course in formal specification. It will also be of value to software development professionals.