ISTQB Foundation Level Exam Prep Book

​ISTQB Foundation Level

​Exam Prep Book

​Access 450+ Realistic questions, answers and detailed explanations arranged topic wise to get you ISTQB certified on your 1st attempt

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The content of this book is based on the ISTQB Foundation syllabus and the latest ISTQB Foundation Level Certification Guidelines. All rights Reserved.

​Preface

Welcome to the ISTQB Foundation Level Exam Prep Book, an indispensable resource designed to equip you with the knowledge and confidence needed to successfully navigate and conquer the ISTQB Foundation Level Certification on your very first attempt. This comprehensive guide has been meticulously crafted to serve as your go-to companion throughout your certification journey, offering 450+ realistic questions, answers, and detailed explanations arranged systematically by topic.

In the fast-evolving landscape of software testing, the International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB) has emerged as a globally recognized authority, setting the standards for professional excellence in software testing. Achieving the ISTQB Foundation Level Certification is not only a testament to your proficiency in fundamental testing concepts but also a key milestone in advancing your career within the dynamic field of software testing.

Why This Book?

This book is not just a collection of questions and answers; it's a strategic toolkit designed to empower you with the essential skills and insights required to excel in the ISTQB Foundation Level Exam. Here's what sets it apart:

Comprehensive Coverage: The book covers the entire ISTQB Foundation Level syllabus, providing a detailed exploration of each topic to ensure a thorough understanding of the core principles and practices.

Realistic Practice: With over 460 carefully curated questions, this book simulates the actual exam environment, allowing you to familiarize yourself with the format, difficulty level, and time constraints you'll encounter on exam day.

Detailed Explanations: Every question is accompanied by a comprehensive explanation, giving you not just the correct answer but also the reasoning behind it. This aids in deepening your understanding of the concepts and fortifies your problem-solving skills.

Topic-wise Organization: The questions are arranged by topic, enabling you to focus on specific areas of the syllabus or systematically work through the entire content. This targeted approach ensures a more efficient and effective study experience.

Strategic Insights: Beyond the questions and answers, this book provides strategic insights, tips, and exam-taking strategies garnered from industry experts and successful ISTQB certification holders.

Who Should Use This Book?

Whether you are a novice entering the world of software testing or an experienced professional looking to formalize your knowledge, this book is tailored to meet your needs. It serves as an ideal resource for:

●  Individuals preparing for the ISTQB Foundation Level Certification exam.

●  Trainers and educators seeking a reliable tool for preparing their students.

●  Practitioners aiming to reinforce their understanding of fundamental testing concepts.

Embark on your certification journey with confidence, armed with the knowledge and insights offered by this ISTQB Foundation Level Exam Prep Book. May it serve as a beacon guiding you towards success in obtaining your certification on the very first attempt.

Happy studying, and best of luck on your certification journey!

Abound Academy

​About the Author

Abound Academy is a Professional Certification Provider Institution which provides content for major professional certification exams such as PMP®, Agile®, Disciplined Agile®, Scrum®,  AWS®, Azure®, PSM®, and many other such high-demand certifications. We offer our candidates with exam study materials like online courses, training books, realistic mock questions, and downloadable pdf for all the resources that are featured in our Academy.  We help you to boost your professional career by providing a definitive way of getting you certified on your respective certification on your very 1st attempt.

As an academy, we have enabled more than 100,000 individuals with their certification requirements and delivered successful results for more than 50,000 students. Our mission is to act as a stimulant to bring a positive boost in career change for everyone. Our study material and exam simulators are made to help the professionals to get certified, and thus achieve their goals in their respective fields.

We believe that skills and their certification has the power to transform lives and the whole world. We are dedicated to providing best-in-industry training and mock tests that are delivered by highly experienced and competent industry experts. We thrive to work in partnership with communities over the boundaries. Our focus is to become the leading provider of high-quality online certification training to professionals over the boundaries.

​Table of Content

Chapter 1: ISTQB Foundation

1.1 The Importance of Software Testing

1.2 Candidates Eligible

1.3 Structure of the ISTQB Foundation Level Exam

1.4 Domains Covered

1 Foundation of Testing

2 Testing Throughout the Software Development Lifecycle

3 Static Testing

4 Testing Techniques

5 Test Management

6 Tool Support for Testing

1.5 10 Step guide for preparing for ISTQB Foundation Exam

Chapter 2- #1 Foundation of Testing

2.1 Fundamentals of Testing

Chapter 3 - #2 Testing Throughout the Software Development Lifecycle

3.1 Testing Throughout the Software Development Lifecycle

Chapter 4: #3 Static Testing

4.1 Static Testing

Chapter 5 - #4 Testing Techniques

5.1 Test Analysis and Design

Chapter 6 - #5 Test Management

6.1 Managing the Test Activities

Chapter 7 - #6 Tool Support for Testing

7.1 Test Tools

Glossary

​Chapter 1: ISTQB Foundation

The International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB) is a globally recognized organization that provides a standardized framework for software testing. The ISTQB Foundation Level Certification is an entry-level qualification designed for individuals who want to establish a solid foundation in software testing principles and practices. This certification serves as a benchmark for professionals, demonstrating their proficiency in essential testing concepts and techniques.

​1.1 The Importance of Software Testing

Software testing is a systematic process of evaluating a software application or system to identify and address any defects, ensuring that it meets specified requirements and functions as intended. Testing is an essential phase in the software development life cycle (SDLC) that helps to enhance the quality, reliability, and performance of software products. The goal is to deliver software that not only meets user expectations but also provides a seamless and error-free user experience.

Testing is not without its challenges. Software applications are becoming more complex, and the demand for rapid development cycles has increased. Additionally, the diversity of platforms, devices, and user environments adds to the complexity of ensuring software reliability. Effective testing requires a structured and comprehensive approach, involving various testing techniques, methodologies, and tools.

​1.2 Candidates Eligible

The ISTQB Foundation Level Exam is designed for individuals who are involved in software testing or related activities and wish to establish a solid understanding of fundamental testing concepts and techniques. The exam is suitable for a wide range of professionals, including:

●  Testers: Those who are directly involved in the testing process, including test analysts, test engineers, test consultants, and test managers.

●  Quality Assurance (QA) Professionals: Individuals responsible for ensuring the quality of software, including QA analysts and managers.

●  Software Developers: Those who write code and want to understand the principles of testing to enhance the quality of their code.

●  Business Analysts: Professionals involved in defining and specifying requirements, as they play a crucial role in the testing process.

●  Project Managers: Individuals responsible for managing projects where testing is a significant component.

●  IT Managers: Managers overseeing IT projects who need to understand the importance of testing and its impact on the overall success of a project.

●  Anyone Interested in Software Testing: Individuals from various backgrounds who want to gain knowledge in software testing, regardless of their specific role.

●  Graduates and Students: Those pursuing a career in software development or testing, as the Foundation Level provides a strong foundation for further specialization in testing.

​1.3 Structure of the ISTQB Foundation Level Exam

The ISTQB Foundation Level Exam is divided into different modules, each covering key aspects of software testing. These modules include:

●  Fundamentals of Testing: This module introduces the basic concepts of software testing, including the testing process, testing levels, and testing types.

●  Testing Throughout the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC): This module explores the role of testing at various stages of the SDLC, emphasizing the importance of early testing and collaboration with other project activities.

●  Static Techniques: This module covers static testing techniques, such as reviews and inspections, which are performed without executing the code.

●  Test Design Techniques: Here, candidates learn about dynamic testing techniques, including specification-based and structure-based testing approaches.

●  Test Management: This module delves into the planning, monitoring, and control of the testing process, addressing topics like test estimation, monitoring, and configuration management.

●  Tool Support for Testing: Candidates are introduced to various testing tools and their role in automating and enhancing the testing process.

​1.4 Domains Covered

As of the last update, the ISTQB Foundation Level Exam covers several key domains that are essential for a foundational understanding of software testing. Keep in mind that exam content may be updated, so it's essential to refer to the latest ISTQB syllabus for the most accurate information. As of my last update, the main domains included:

​1 Foundation of Testing

1.1 Introduction to Software Testing

●  Definition and purpose of testing

●  Testing principles

●  Objectives and benefits of testing

1.2 Seven Testing Principles

●  Explanation of the seven fundamental testing principles

1.3 Fundamental Test Process

●  Test planning and control

●  Test analysis and design

●  Test implementation and execution

●  Evaluating exit criteria and reporting

●  Test closure activities

1.4 The Psychology of Testing

●  Human psychology and testing

●  Factors influencing the psychology of testing

●  Tester independence and bias

​2 Testing Throughout the Software Development Lifecycle

2.1 Software Development Models

●  Waterfall model

●  V-model

●  Agile development and testing

●  DevOps and continuous testing

2.2 Test Levels

●  Unit testing

●  Integration testing

●  System testing

●  Acceptance testing

●  Alpha and Beta testing

2.3 Test Types

●  Functional and non-functional testing

●  Structural and non-structural testing

●  Retesting and regression testing

2.4 Maintenance Testing

●  Regression testing in maintenance

●  Impact analysis

●  Regression test selection techniques

​3 Static Testing

3.1 Static Testing Process

●  Review and static analysis

●  Roles and responsibilities in reviews

●  Inspection, walkthrough, and technical review

3.2 Static Testing Benefits and Types

●  Advantages of static testing

●  Informal reviews

●  Formal reviews

●  Static analysis by tools

​4 Testing Techniques

4.1 Black-Box Testing

●  Equivalence partitioning

●  Boundary value analysis

●  Decision table testing

●  State transition testing

●  Use case testing

4.2 White-Box Testing

●  Statement coverage

●  Decision coverage

●  Condition coverage

●  Path coverage

●  Control flow graphs

4.3 Experience-Based Techniques

●  Error guessing

●  Exploratory testing

●  Checklist-based testing

●  Ad-hoc testing

4.4 Choosing Test Techniques

●  Selection criteria for test techniques

●  Factors influencing test technique selection

​5 Test Management

5.1 Test Organization

●  Test organization structure

●  Test planning tasks and objectives

●  Entry and exit criteria for test levels

5.2 Test Planning and Estimation

●  Test planning documentation

●  Test estimation techniques

●  Test scheduling

5.3 Test Progress Monitoring and Control

●  Test progress monitoring

●  Test control

●  Test reporting

5.4 Configuration Management

●  Version and release control

●  Baselines and traceability

●  Configuration identification and status accounting

5.5 Risk and Testing

●  Risk analysis and management

●  Defining and prioritizing risks

●  Risk-based testing

​6 Tool Support for Testing

6.1 Types of Test Tools

●  Test management tools

●  Performance testing tools

●  Security testing tools

●  Test design and execution tools

6.2 Effective Use of Tools

●  Factors influencing tool selection

●  Tool implementation and deployment

●  Benefits and risks of test automation

6.3 Introducing a Tool into an Organization

●  Tool evaluation and selection

●  Tool customization and configuration

●  Tool deployment and maintenance

​1.5 10 Step guide for preparing for ISTQB Foundation Exam

Congratulations on reaching this point in your ISTQB Foundation Level certification journey! As you approach the exam, it's crucial to focus on effective preparation strategies to ensure success. This chapter will guide you through a comprehensive preparation plan, covering key areas such as study materials, practice tests, and exam-day strategies. Here are 10 steps, if followed properly, you will be ready for the Exam in no time:

Step 1. Understand the Exam Syllabus:

Familiarize yourself with the ISTQB Foundation Level syllabus. Ensure you have a clear understanding of the topics and learning objectives outlined in the official documentation.

Step 2. Select the Right Study Materials:

Utilize official ISTQB study materials, including the ISTQB Foundation Level Syllabus, the ISTQB Glossary, and the recommended textbooks. Explore online resources, practice tests, and mock exams from reputable sources to supplement your understanding.

Step 3. Create a Study Plan:

Develop a structured study plan based on the time available before your exam date. Allocate specific time slots for each topic, ensuring coverage of the entire syllabus. Break down your study sessions into manageable chunks to enhance retention.

Step 4. Focus on Key Areas:

Identify areas where you may need more attention and allocate additional study time to those topics. Prioritize understanding fundamental concepts, as the Foundation Level exam assesses a broad range of testing principles.

Step 5. Utilize Practice Tests:

Practice tests are invaluable for gauging your knowledge and understanding of exam-related topics. Take advantage of available sample questions and practice exams to simulate the exam environment.

Step 6. Review and Reinforce:

Regularly review the material you've covered to reinforce your understanding. Make use of flashcards, mind maps, or other visual aids to help memorize key concepts and definitions.

Step 7. Engage in Group Study:

Consider joining a study group to benefit from collective insights and share different perspectives on challenging topics. Explaining concepts to others can solidify your understanding and highlight areas that may require further review.

Step 8. Stay Healthy and Manage Stress:

Ensure you get enough sleep and maintain a healthy lifestyle during your preparation period. Manage stress by incorporating relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, into your routine.

Step 9. Simulate Exam Conditions:

Take practice exams under timed conditions to simulate the pressure of the actual exam. Evaluate your performance and identify areas for improvement.

Step 10. Exam-Day Strategies:

Plan your travel to the exam center in advance, allowing for potential delays. Arrive early on the exam day to familiarize yourself with the surroundings and minimize stress. Read each question carefully during the exam, and allocate time wisely to ensure you answer all questions.

All the best....

​Chapter 2- #1 Foundation of Testing

The first section of the ISTQB (International Software Testing Qualifications Board) Foundation Level syllabus, titled Foundation of Testing, serves as the cornerstone for understanding the fundamental principles and concepts that underlie the practice of software testing. As the opening chapter of the ISTQB Foundation Level certification program, it is essential in establishing a strong foundation for aspiring and experienced software testers alike. This chapter lays the groundwork for the entire certification course by providing a comprehensive introduction to the core principles of software testing.

Software testing is a critical phase in the software development life cycle, and its importance cannot be overstated. Effective testing ensures that the software product meets the specified requirements, functions correctly, and is free from defects and vulnerabilities. Moreover, it enhances the reliability, performance, and security of the software, which is crucial in today's technology-driven world.

In this chapter, candidates studying for the ISTQB Foundation Level certification will explore the following key topics:

The Purpose of Testing: This section explores the primary objectives of software testing. It emphasizes the importance of identifying and mitigating defects, ensuring that the software meets user expectations, and enhancing the overall quality of the product.

The Seven Principles of Testing: The questions covers the seven fundamental principles that guide the testing process. These principles are vital for understanding how to design, implement, and execute effective test strategies. They include the principle of Early Testing, Defect Clustering, Pesticide Paradox, Testing Shows Presence of Defects, Exhaustive Testing Is Impossible, Testable Requirements, and Absence of Errors Fallacy.

The Fundamental Test Process: The questions presents an overview of the stages involved in the software testing process. It outlines the key activities, including test planning and control, test analysis and design, test implementation and execution, and evaluating exit criteria and reporting.

The Psychology of Testing: This part delves into the psychological aspects of testing, highlighting the need for a systematic and unbiased approach. It discusses how human biases and prejudices can impact testing results and emphasizes the importance of structured and objective testing practices.

Testing Code of Ethics: The chapter touches upon the ethical considerations in software testing, emphasizing the tester's responsibility to act with integrity, professionalism, and transparency while conducting their testing activities.

Quiz and Review Questions: To reinforce learning, the chapter typically includes quiz questions and review exercises that allow candidates to test their understanding of the covered topics.

​2.1 Fundamentals of Testing

Question 1:

Is testing only a technical activity? (Select ONE option.)

Yes

No

Sometimes

Only in Agile methodologies

Answer: B.

Explanation

Option1: Incorrect. Testing is not only a technical activity; it also needs proper planning, management, etc.

Option2: Correct. Testing is more than just a technical activity. It also encompasses planning, design, management, and evaluation, among other things.

Option3: Incorrect. Testing always involves both technical and non-technical activities.

Option4: Incorrect. The nature of testing as both a technical and non-technical activity is not limited to Agile methodologies.

Question 2:

Sarah believes that software testing only involves running the software and checking the results. Which term best describes this belief? (Select ONE option.)

A common practice in software testing

Static testing

Dynamic testing

A misconception about software testing

Answer: D.

Explanation

Option1: Incorrect. This belief is actually a common misconception, not a practice.

Option2: Incorrect. Static testing does not involve running the software.

Option3: Incorrect. Dynamic testing involves running the software, but it's not the only aspect of software testing.

Option4: Correct. The belief that software testing only involves running the software and checking results is a common misconception. ISTQB FL Syllabus 4 clearly states that software testing also includes other activities.

Question 3:

What are the test objects in software testing? (Select ONE option.)

Testers

Testing tools

Software artifacts being tested

Test techniques

Answer: C.

Explanation

Option1: Incorrect. Test objects are not testers.

Option2: Incorrect. Test objects are not testing tools.

Option3: Correct. According to the ISTQB Foundation Syllabus and Glossary, test objects refer to components of a software system that are the subject of testing. These include application software, data, and even configurations and they serve as the material upon which testing is performed. The term is elaborated in the 'Fundamentals of Testing' section.

Option4: Incorrect. Test objects are not test techniques.

Question 4:

What does testing also involve other than verification? (Select ONE option.)

Validation

Execution

Review

Monitoring

Answer: A.

Explanation

Option1: Correct. In addition to verification, testing encompasses validation. Verification ensures that the system is well-engineered and error-free, while validation checks that the right system has been built for the end-users.

Option2: Incorrect. Execution is a part of both verification and validation.

Option3: Incorrect. Review is a type of static testing and can be part of both verification and validation.

Option4: Incorrect. Monitoring is an activity but not what distinguishes testing from verification.

Question 5:

What does validation in testing focus on? (Select ONE option.)

Meeting specified requirements

Test execution

Meeting users’ and stakeholders’ needs

Finding defects

Answer: C.

Explanation

Option1: Incorrect. Validation does not focus solely on meeting specified requirements.

Option2: Incorrect. Validation is not solely about test execution.

Option3: Correct. In the context of ISTQB, validation is the process of evaluating a system or component during or at the end of the development process to determine whether it satisfies the specified requirements. However, validation aims specifically at ensuring that the software product is meeting the actual needs of the users and stakeholders. This is elaborated in the ISTQB Foundation Syllabus under the topic of 'Validation and Verification'.

Option4: Incorrect. Validation does not focus only on finding defects.

Question 6:

What is the main objective of software testing? (Select ONE option.)

To discover defects and evaluate the quality of software artifacts.

To only execute tests and check results.

To only focus on verification of the test object.

To only focus on validation of the test object.

Answer: A.

Explanation

Option 1: Correct. According to the ISTQB Foundation Syllabus, the main objective of software testing is to find defects and to evaluate the quality of the software product. This includes not only discovering defects but also gaining confidence in the level of quality to make informed decisions.

Option 2: Incorrect. Software testing is not limited to only executing tests.

Option 3: Incorrect. Software testing involves both verification and validation.

Option 4: Incorrect. Software testing involves both verification and validation.

Question 7:

Which type of testing involves the execution of software? (Select ONE option.)

Static Testing

Review Testing

Analysis Testing

Dynamic Testing

Answer: D.

Explanation

Option1: Incorrect. Static testing does not involve the execution of software.

Option2: Incorrect. Review testing is a part of static testing.

Option3: Incorrect. There is no specific 'Analysis Testing' that involves the execution of software.

Option4: Correct. As per ISTQB Foundation Syllabus and Glossary, Dynamic Testing involves the execution of the software component or system.

Question 8:

What does static testing NOT include? (Select ONE option.)

Reviews

Executing the software

Static analysis

Code inspections

Answer: B.

Explanation

Option1: Incorrect. Reviews are a part of static testing.

Option2: Correct. Static testing fundamentally involves evaluating a software component without executing it. This is contrary to dynamic testing methods where execution is involved.

Option3: Incorrect. Static analysis is a part of static testing.

Option4: Incorrect. Code inspections are a type of review, which is a part of static testing.

Question 9:

What is required from testers besides technical skills? (Select ONE option.)

Specialized knowledge and analytical skills

Ability to use only test tools

Ability to only execute tests

Focus on finding defects

Answer: A.

Explanation

Option1: Correct. In addition to technical skills, testers require specialized knowledge in the application domain, analytical skills, and a critical thinking mindset. This enables them to not only find defects but also to provide value-added suggestions for the product.

Option2: Incorrect. Using test tools is a part of the tester's skillset but not the only requirement.

Option3: Incorrect. Testers do more than just executing tests.

Option4: Incorrect. Although finding defects is important, the tester's role is much broader.