Efficient weakest preconditions

Desired computer-program properties can be described by logical formulas called verification conditions. Different mathematically-equivalent forms of these verification conditions can have a great impact on the performance of an automatic theorem prover that tries to discharge them. This paper presents a simple weakest-precondition understanding of the ESC/Java technique for generating verification conditions. This new understanding of the technique spotlights the program property that makes the technique work. (C) 2004 Published by Elsevier B.V.