Transitions are executed as part of a more complex compound transition that takes a StateMachine execution from one stable state configuration to another. Source Unified Modeling Language 2.5.1
Transition::kind : TransitionKind [1..1] = external Indicates the precise type of the Transition. Source Unified Modeling Language 2.5.1
A Transition represents an arc between exactly one source Vertex and exactly one Target vertex (the source and targets may be the same Vertex). It may form part of a compound transition, which takes the StateMachine from one steady State configuration... Source Unified Modeling Language 2.5.1
Composite state entry and exit points Gallery Tutorial TRAIL: Webel's ultimate guide to Systems Modeling Language (v1) with MagicDraw/Cameo Section 01:03: UML Behavior: StateMachines quick start Slide kind UML StateMachine Diagram
Consequently, choice is used to realize a dynamic conditional branch. It allows splitting of compound transitions into multiple alternative paths such that the decision on which path to take may depend on the results of Behavior executions performed ... Source Unified Modeling Language 2.5.1
NOTE. Such guard Constraints are evaluated before any compound transition containing this Pseudostate is executed, which is why this is referred to as a static conditional branch. Source Unified Modeling Language 2.5.1