In computer programming, abstraction inversion occurs when a programmer creates abstract (or simple) constructs on top of concrete (or complex) constructs. The correct way is considered to be the other way round — to create complex constructs on top of more basic constructs. Abstraction inversion is an example of an anti-pattern. Computer code (HTML with JavaScript) in a tool that uses colors to help the developer see the function of each piece of code. ... In computer science, abstraction is a mechanism and practice to reduce and factor out details so that one can focus on few concepts at a time. ... Anti-patterns, also referred to as pitfalls, are classes of commonly-reinvented bad solutions to problems. ...

The term "abstraction inversion" is also sometimes misused as an insult against a certain architecture or design.

This is a somewhat difficult anti-pattern to recognise, as:

• it can be unclear what is more abstract or concrete, or more simple or complex,
• a simple interface, though useful, may require a complex implementation,
• a development environment may require one to express abstract concepts in specific ways,
• it can be unclear where the irreducible complexity of a system should be located.

Examples that are common outside professional programming circles include:

• Using Excel lookup functions to replicate the functionality of a database
• Using variant data types as loop counters in Microsoft Visual Basic where an integer type is also available.

External links

• Article in Ward's Wiki- (includes a lot of discussion)