Z.: An Introduction to Formal Methods Book

Now that formal methods are seen as a necessary and beneficial theoretical tool for systems designers and programmers, this book offers a thorough and comprehensive tutorial introduction to Z taking as its starting point the practical use of this formal specification language. Case studies are used to illustrate all aspects of Z and are introduced early on in order to motivate the mathematical notations that have to be covered. Standard notation is used throughout. Many proofs are included and they are presented using the commonest format for natural deduction proofs. With exercises given and clear descriptions and explanations provided, this book is required reading for students and post-experience software engineers learning Z. Enhancements to this edition are more exercises, information on how to relate Z specifications to actual program code, and amendments so that the book is in line with the current language standards.