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Cause-effect graphing is a systematic approach used in software testing to generate test cases that are based on the logical relationships between inputs (causes) and outputs (effects) of a system. The method entails creating a graphical representation of these relationships, allowing testers to identify how various combinations of inputs affect the output behaviors of the software being tested.

The essence of cause-effect graphing is that it is not an ad hoc method; rather, it follows a structured methodology that interprets requirements systematically. This minimizes the chances of missing important test scenarios and helps ensure thorough coverage of the software's behavior according to its specifications. In contrast, an ad hoc approach lacks formal structure and can lead to inconsistencies and incomplete test coverage as it relies on individual judgment without a systematic basis.

The distinction lies in the objective and methodology: cause-effect graphing aims for a comprehensive and organized approach to test case generation, while an ad hoc method is inherently unstructured. Thus, the assertion that cause-effect graphing is a method of generating test cases based on an ad hoc set of conditions is inaccurate.