State diagram examples.
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What a state diagram is.
A state diagram shows the conditions an object or system can be in and the events that move it from one condition to another. Each arrow names the event, and it can also show a guard or an action.
Use a state diagram when the question is what happens to one thing over time: an order, a UI session, a machine or a game. An activity diagram is better when you need to show work moving through a broader process.
- Standard
- OMG UML 2.5.1 §14 + Harel (1987) statechart
- Engine
- schematex-state
- Editable
- Double-click text, drag nodes
- Export
- SVG · PNG · PDF
Who uses state diagrams.
Order states, exceptions and returns mapped before the workflow is built.
Loading, ready, updating and error states for an application screen or store.
Turn changes, fouls and winning conditions checked as a complete lifecycle.
How to make a state diagram in three steps.
Describe it
One paragraph is enough to start.
See the drawing
Drawn by the right engine.
Say what changes
Every edit keeps a version.
Common questions
What is a state diagram?
A state diagram is a behavioural diagram that models how one object or system changes state in response to events. States show conditions, while arrows show the transitions between them.
When should I use a state diagram?
Use one when something has a distinct lifecycle, such as an order, account, device, session or game. It helps expose missing transitions and edge cases.
What are the key elements of a state diagram?
The core elements are states, transition arrows, event labels, an initial state and final states. Transitions can also include guards that restrict when they occur and actions that run during the change.
What is the difference between a state diagram and an activity diagram?
A state diagram follows one thing through its possible conditions. An activity diagram follows work or decisions through a process, often across several people or systems.
How do I make a state diagram?
Describe the thing being modelled, its possible states, the events that trigger changes and any exception paths. Then refine the diagram by adding, removing or relabelling transitions.
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