The ISTQB CTFL is the foundation level exam for anyone who wants to undertake a basic test of his/her knowledge as regards software testing. Just like BCS (formerly ISEB) offers the BCS (formerly ISEB) foundation, ISTQB offers the CTFL as a beginner's certification for anyone who wants to test their abilities as a software test engineer. Of course there are other courses to follow such as the BCS (formerly ISEB) Intermediate; the certified foundation level test is the gateway to the ISTQB ladder of certifications. With this test the candidate comes to know his/her capabilities as far as software testing are concerned, from a beginner's perspective. Later on the person can attempt the higher certifications in order to boost his/her credentials in the field of software testing.

As far as the requirements for appearing in this ISTQB CTFL is concerned, there really isn't much. The person has to be qualified for work (assuming a degree in computer science), if the person has some knowledge of testing that is good but not a requirement for this test. As such the test is divided in several parts which cover different aspects of ISTQB syllabus for CTFL. As the person prepares this course he/she realizes how important these chapters are in terms of understanding the basic process or flow of software testing.

As such everybody has some idea about testing. However, putting it to practice using the proper way, is something which is to be learned with time. And the ISTQB offers just the right test for it. If you read their course and the contents you will understand that most or some of the parts were already known to you while you were doing the testing activities on any project. It is just that a person doesn't realize it in a systematic manner. So basically this syllabus of CTFL makes sure that the person reads the material in an informed and systematic way. This, in turn helps the person in becoming aware of the international standards on software testing.

The various areas that are there for the person to study include (but not limited to) fundamentals of testing, Testing through the software life cycle and Test design techniques. In essence, a person really knows what these things are before he/she begins testing. But the person might or might not be aware of the sequence of activities, like before we begin testing we need to have a clear overview of requirements, of the business case, so forth. So reading this syllabus really makes a person realize how important it is to know the various phases of software lifecycle and the role of the software test engineer in each of them. And also the sequence of activities that the test engineer is supposed to perform and understand during the lifecycle. That enables a person to increase his/her basic understanding of the software lifecycle as well as learn the importance of software testing. More learning is to follow, of course but the basic foundation has to be there, which is what the ISTQB CTFL provides to the candidates.

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