What is the primary function of declarative specifications?

• A. They describe step-by-step procedures to compute results.
• B. They describe properties that a result must satisfy, not the procedure.
• C. They optimize query performance.
• D. They specify user interface layout.

Answer: (B)

Describing what must be true of the outcome without prescribing how to compute it is the essence of declarative specifications. They specify properties or constraints that the result must satisfy, letting the system figure out the steps to achieve that result. This contrasts with imperative approaches that spell out a step-by-step procedure to reach a result. In practice, declarative specifications appear when you state the desired conditions, invariants, or relationships, and the solver or engine determines how to enforce them. Because of this focus on the “what” rather than the “how,” the primary function is not to outline procedures, optimize performance, or dictate interface details.