1 Introduction.- 1.1 Property checking.- 1.2 Verification techniques.- 1.3 What is an assertion?.- 1.3.1 A historical perspective.- 1.3.2 Do assertions really work?.- 1.3.3 What are the benefits of assertions?.- 1.3.4 Why are assertions not used?.- 1.4 Phases of the design process.- 1.4.1 Ensuring requirements are satisfied.- 1.4.2 Techniques for ensuring consistency.- 1.4.3 Roles and ownership.- 1.5 Summary.- 2 Assertion Methodology.- 2.1 Design...