Hints and Tips
When you create class diagrams in the UML, remember that every class diagram is just a graphical presentation of the static design view of a system. No single class diagram need capture everything about a system's design view. Collectively, all the class diagrams of a system represent the system's complete static design view; individually, each represents just one aspect.A well-structured class diagram
- Is focused on communicating one aspect of a system's static design view.
- Contains only elements that are essential to understanding that aspect.
- Provides detail consistent with its level of abstraction, with only those adornments that are essential to understanding.
- Is not so minimalist that it misinforms the reader about important semantics.
When you draw a class diagram,
- Give it a name that communicates its purpose.
- Lay out its elements to minimize lines that cross.
- Organize its elements spatially so that things that are semantically close are laid out physically close.
- Use notes and color as visual cues to draw attention to important features of your diagram.
- Try not to show too many kinds of relationships. In general, one kind of relationship will tend to dominate each class diagram.