Effective Study Techniques for the ISTQB CTFL-Foundation Exam

When a defect is detected and fixed, the software should be retested to confirm that the original defect has been successfully removed. This process is called confirmation testing (or re-testing). According to the ISTQB CTFL Syllabus, version 4.0, confirmation testing involves re-running a test to verify that a specific defect has been fixed. The main objective of this type of testing is to ensure that the initial defect no longer exists after the fix has been applied.

The syllabus states that confirmation testing is distinct from regression testing, which checks for unintended side effects of changes in the software. Confirmation testing specifically targets the areas where defects were found and fixed to ensure those defects are resolved​​.

Faults found by users are typically due to a combination of poor software quality and inadequate testing. Poor software quality can result from defects in the code, design, or requirements, while poor testing can fail to identify these defects before the software is released. Therefore, both factors contribute to the presence of faults in the software that users encounter​​.

A deviation from the specified or expected behavior that is visible to end-users is called a "failure." According to the ISTQB CTFL Syllabus, version 4.0, the terms are defined as follows:

Anerroris a human action that produces an incorrect result.

Afault(or defect) is a flaw in a component or system that can cause the system to fail to perform its required function.

Afailureoccurs when a fault is executed, leading to a deviation from the expected behavior, and this deviation becomes apparent to the end-users.

Therefore, when the deviation is visible to end-users, it is classified as a failure​​.

A key principle of software testing is that it is usually impossible to test all possible input and output combinations for a software system. This principle, highlighted in the ISTQB CTFL Syllabus, acknowledges the practical limitations of testing. Instead, risk-based testing and prioritization techniques are employed to focus on the most critical areas. This approach ensures effective and efficient testing without attempting the infeasible task of exhaustive testing​​.

Designing the tests is part of the Test Analysis and Design phase, not the Test Implementation and Execution phase. The Test Implementation and Execution phase involves creating test suites, executing test cases, and comparing actual results with expected outcomes to identify any discrepancies​​.

The selection of a test approach is crucial for the success of the testing process. According to the ISTQB CTFL Syllabus, version 4.0, one of the most important factors in selecting a test approach is the availability of skills and experience in the proposed techniques. This ensures that the team can effectively implement and execute the testing strategies.

While other factors like the availability of tools, budget for training, and willingness to learn new techniques are important, the skills and experience of the team are critical to ensure that the chosen test approach can be executed efficiently and effectively. Without the necessary skills and experience, even the best tools and techniques may not be utilized to their full potential​​.

The test process can start as soon as the software requirements have been approved. The ISTQB CTFL syllabus v4.0 emphasizes that early involvement of testing helps in identifying defects early in the lifecycle, which includes the validation of requirements and planning of testing activities based on those requirements​​.

When working with software development models, it is crucial to adapt the models to the context of the specific project and product characteristics. Different projects and products may require different approaches, and flexibility in choosing or adapting a model ensures that the development process is efficient and effective. This customization allows for better alignment with project requirements, timelines, and risks, ultimately leading to a higher quality product​​.

Configuration management involves practices like status accounting of configuration items, identification of test versions, record of changes to documentation over time, and controlled library access. However, auditing conformance to ISO9001 is related to quality management and not specifically part of configuration management​​.

The test-planning phase involves deciding on schedules and deliverables, hardware and software requirements, and entry and exit criteria. However, the specific types of test cases to be used are typically defined during the test design phase, not during the test planning phase. Test planning focuses on the overall approach and resources needed for testing. Reference: ISTQB CTFL Syllabus V4.0, Section 5.1.1​​.