Design & Methodology Flashcards

Which testing methodology emphasizes writing tests before writing the application code?

Answer: Test-driven development (TDD)

TDD requires developers to write a failing unit test first, then write only the code necessary to make that test pass.

A state transition diagram shows a login module with states: Logged Out, Entering Credentials, and Logged In. Which transition is INVALID?

Answer: Logged In → Entering Credentials on valid credentials

Transitioning from Logged In back to Entering Credentials on valid credentials is illogical; a user already logged in would not re-enter credentials.

Which risk factor is MOST likely to increase the priority of a test case in a risk-based testing approach?

Answer: The module has high usage frequency and a history of defects

Risk-based testing prioritizes areas with high likelihood of failure (defect history) combined with high impact (usage frequency).

What distinguishes a test condition from a test case?

Answer: A test condition is an aspect of the system to be exercised; a test case is the detailed steps to do so

A test condition identifies what needs to be tested (e.g., 'valid login'), while a test case specifies exact inputs, steps, and expected outcomes.

When designing tests for a system with 3 independent binary conditions, how many rules does a full decision table require?

Answer: 8

A full decision table for n binary conditions requires 2^n rules; 2^3 = 8 unique combinations.

Which artifact documents the criteria that must be met before testing of a specific phase or feature can begin?

Answer: Entry criteria

Entry criteria define the preconditions that must be satisfied before testing starts, such as build availability or environment readiness.

In exploratory testing, what is a 'test charter'?

Answer: A brief mission statement guiding exploration of a specific area

A test charter describes the scope, goal, and time-box for an exploratory testing session without prescribing exact test cases.