Geometric Theory for Program Testing

TL;DR

This paper introduces a geometric theory for program testing that integrates formal verification methods into a comprehensive testing environment, aiding error detection and correction through visual causal diagrams.

Contribution

It presents a novel geometric framework for program testing, including an automated error localization and correction tool using visual causal chain diagrams.

Findings

Automated error localization in testing process

Visual causal diagrams assist in debugging

Tool supports program modification for error removal

Abstract

Formal methods for verification of programs are extended to testing of programs. Their combination is intended to lead to benefits in reliable program development, testing, and evolution. Our geometric theory of testing is intended to serve as the specification of a testing environment, included as the last stage of a toolchain that assists professional programmers, amateurs, and students of Computer Science. The testing environment includes an automated algorithm which locates errors in a test that has been run, and assists in correcting them. It does this by displaying, on a monitor screen, a stick diagram of causal chains in the execution of the program under test. The diagram can then be navigated backwards in the familiar style of a satnav following roads on a map. This will reveal selections of places at which the program should be modified to remove the error.