What does the term abstraction refer to?

The term abstraction refers to the act of simplifying complexity. In engineering and software development, abstraction is a fundamental concept that enables individuals to manage complexity by reducing the amount of detail presented at one time. It allows engineers to focus on the general features or behaviors of a system, rather than being bogged down by specific details.

For instance, when designing a system, one may use high-level models or representations to convey the system's functionality without delving into intricate technical specifications. This makes it easier to understand and communicate ideas, as well as to work collaboratively, since multiple stakeholders can have different backgrounds and levels of expertise.

By using abstraction, engineers can create more general solutions that can be applied to a variety of situations rather than reinventing the wheel for every new problem. This is essential for efficient problem-solving and innovation within the engineering field.