VISUAL REFERENCE

Sequence Diagrams Visual Map

Master the visual language of system interactions. Learn what every arrow, box, and line represents.

Structure

Lifeline (Participant)

User

Represents a participant (Class, Component, or Actor). The dashed line represents the passage of time downwards.

Execution

Activation Bar

Indicates that the participant is currently active (executing code). Shows the focus of control.

Communication

Synchronous Message

request()

A blocking call (solid line, filled arrow). Sender waits for response.

Communication

Asynchronous Message

notify()

A non-blocking call (solid line, open arrow). Sender continues immediately.

Communication

Return Message

return data

Return of control/data to the caller (dashed line, open arrow).

Execution

Self Invocation

internal()

An object calling its own method (loopback arrow).

Control Logic

Loop Fragment

loop[for each item]

Repetitive sequence enclosed in a frame labeled 'loop'.

Control Logic

Alt Fragment (If/Else)

alt[valid][invalid]

Mutually exclusive choices. Separated by a horizontal divider.

Control Logic

Opt Fragment

opt[cache miss]

Optional sequence executed only if the guard condition is true.