classdiagram

A class diagram is a type of static structure diagram in the Unified Modeling Language (UML) that describes the structure of a system by showing the system's classes, their attributes, operations (or methods), and the relationships among objects. It is a fundamental tool in object-oriented analysis and design, providing a visual representation of the system's architecture.

Class diagrams are composed of several key elements:

1. Classes: Represented by rectangles divided into three sections. The top section contains the class name, the middle section lists the attributes, and the bottom section lists the operations.

2. Relationships: These include associations, generalizations (inheritance), and dependencies. Associations represent a connection between two classes, while generalizations indicate an inheritance relationship. Dependencies show a weaker form of relationship, where one class uses or depends on another.

3. Multiplicity: Indicates the number of objects that can be associated with each other. Common notations include 1 (one), 0..1 (zero or one), * (many), and 1..* (one or many).

4. Visibility: Denoted by symbols such as + (public), - (private), and # (protected), indicating the accessibility of attributes and operations.

Class diagrams are used to model the static structure of a system, helping developers and stakeholders understand the system's components and their interactions. They are particularly useful in the early stages of software development, aiding in the design and planning of the system's architecture.