Return Message

A Return Message in a UML Sequence Diagram represents the response sent back to the caller after a synchronous message has been processed. In Modeldraw, you can use Return Messages to show the completion of an operation and the passing back of results or control to the original sender.

A Return Message

Understanding Return Message

A Return Message represents the response to a previous call. Key characteristics include:

• It shows the completion of an operation and the return of results or control

• It is drawn as a dashed line with an open arrowhead

• It typically marks the end of an Activation Bar on the receiving Lifeline

• It is usually paired with a preceding Synchronous Message

A Return Message is represented in UML by a dashed line with an open arrowhead pointing from the receiver back to the original sender.

Return Messages are crucial in Sequence Diagrams for:

• Showing the completion of synchronous operations

• Representing the passing of results back to the caller

• Indicating the end of a particular interaction or method call

Creating a Return Message

To create a Return Message in Modeldraw:

1. Select the Return Message tool from the toolbox.

2. Click on the Activation Bar of the Lifeline that received the original message (typically at the bottom of the Activation Bar).

3. Move your cursor to the Lifeline that sent the original message.

4. Click on the Activation Bar of the original sender's Lifeline where you want the Return Message to end.

5. The Return Message will be created between the two Activation Bars.