Walkthrough
A walkthrough (walk-through) is a comprehensive review of something that includes all the important aspects, but does not necessarily include details, or is not necessarily in the ultimate setting. A walkthrough may be a review process, a review in the form of a report, or an activity that mimics another one. The goals of walkthroughs vary considerably, from teaching to being an investigative process to identify errors.
Usages
Video games
In video games, a walkthrough is a document or video showing a player how to win a game. Walkthroughs date from the earliest text adventures, graphic adventures, and puzzle-adventure games. They are common for role playing games and strategy games. A FAQ provides similar information, but does claim to be comprehensive. A walkthrough variation is "progressive hints." This provides a series of hints, increasingly explicit, to guide the player without completely spoiling the puzzle solving. The player has control which progressively explicit hints are revealed. Walkthroughs are free on the Internet, as opposed to the more involved strategy guides, which are professionally printed with graphics. One form of walkthrough is the "Let's Play", where the player (called an "LPer" in this case) gives running commentary on the game. This form of walkthrough has become increasingly popular on such sites as YouTube.
Software design
In the software industry (see software walkthrough) it describes the process of inspecting algorithms and source code by following paths through code as determined by input conditions and choices. Code walkthroughs verify and validate code in a text form — when a program is not actually running on a computer.
Learning
In learning, a tutor or trainer walks through a new process for students when they are learning it.
Theater
In the theatrical and entertainment industry, a walkthrough a rehearsal where the major issues of choreography and interaction are practiced and resolved, prior to more formal "dress rehearsals." Performers walk through their entrances and exits on stage (rather than in character or in performance mode) and clarify issues they have or that the director has (e.g. unknown cues to be resolved, places to stand or sit.)
Auditing
In an audit, a walkthrough is the act of reviewing a process or activity in scope. The purpose is to confirm if a documented process is in use and is accurately reflecting current workflow. The walkthrough may also be used to test the accuracy of current or previously used control activities.
Architecture
An architectural walkthrough ("flythrough") uses software to give a virtual tour of a building structure before being built. A walkthrough demonstrates how the building will be seen by pedestrian users, the software does not confine the viewer to this view point and permits the possibility of seeing the building from all angles. Walkthrough software became available on personal computers during the 1980s.
See also
