How to Prepare for ISTQB Certified Agile Tester (CTFL-AT)

Yasiru Rasanjaya -

As I already have a CTFL certificate, I chose the CTFL-AT as the most relevant next step for my career success.

In today's software development landscape, Agile methodologies are widely adopted. Understanding the various Agile approaches and terminology is crucial, as project workflows can differ significantly. The broader your knowledge of these variations, the quicker you can adapt to each new project you encounter.

I took the ISTQB Foundation Level - Agile Tester Exam (FL-AT; Agile)   v2014 and passing it was a positive step forward in my career as a tester. Here are some tips on how to prepare for the ISTQB Agile Tester Exam.

Overview of the ISTQB Agile Tester Exam

The ISTQB® Certified Tester Foundation Level - Agile Tester certification exam is a rigorous assessment of a candidate’s competency in applying testing principles within Agile software development methodologies. It emphasizes how testing aligns with the Agile Manifesto values and principles. This exam is designed for professionals working in Agile environments or those planning to transition to Agile within their organizations. It consists of multiple-choice questions that assess candidates' knowledge of the syllabus.

To be eligible for this exam, candidates must hold a valid The ISTQB® Certified Tester Foundation Level (CTFL) certification.

Study Materials

Syllabus of ISTQB Agile Tester Exam

To prepare for the ISTQB Agile Tester Exam, it is highly recommended to utilize the Syllabus. This comprehensive document serves as your roadmap to success. It outlines the learning objectives for each knowledge area, ensuring a focused and in-depth understanding of critical topics. Beyond simply listing topics, the syllabus provides key concepts, references to relevant literature and standards, and a glossary of essential terms. By thoroughly studying the syllabus, you'll gain a solid grasp of Agile testing principles, practices, and their integration with Agile software development as envisioned in the Agile Manifesto. This valuable resource equips you with the knowledge and understanding necessary to confidently navigate the CTFL-AT exam.

These resources serve as trusted guides for exam preparation and enable candidates to gain the knowledge and skills necessary for success in the ISTQB Agile Tester Exam.

Online Resources for Exam Preparation

While the ISTQB Agile Tester Syllabus is your primary guide, venturing into the vast world of online resources can significantly enhance your exam preparation. Here are a few avenues to explore, including some helpful links:

One particularly helpful resource is the Udemy course called "ISTQB Agile Tester Certification Exam Preparation Course". This Udemy course has been extremely beneficial, providing thorough coverage of important topics in a well-organized manner. Additionally, GeeksforGeeks' comprehensive guide on Agile Software Testing provides valuable insights into Agile testing concepts and best practices

Beyond the resources listed above, consider supplementing your Agile knowledge by studying the official Scrum Guide and Kanban Guide:

  • The Scrum Guide:  Outlines the core principles and practices of Scrum, a widely used Agile framework.
  • The Kanban Guide :  Outlines the core principles and practices of Kanban, a widely used Agile framework.

By combining these online resources with your existing CTFL knowledge, you'll be well-equipped to tackle the CTFL-AT exam with confidence.

Practice Tests and Mock Exams

Thorough practice is paramount for exam success, and I highly recommend it to all aspiring CTFL-AT candidates. To solidify my knowledge and grasp the exam format, I utilized the sample tests available on the ISTQB website. These tests provided valuable insights into the question styles and structure of the actual exam.

Further enhancing my preparation, I delved into mock exams like this one: Agile_Tester_Extension_Sample_Exam. This mock exam closely simulates the real exam experience. Additionally, I explored resources like Guru99's Agile Testing Interview Questions . While interview questions may differ slightly from the exam format, they offer valuable practice in applying Agile testing concepts to real-world scenarios.

Considering the dynamic nature of the exam, incorporating these practice tests into your study routine ensures a well-rounded preparation that not only boosts confidence but also enhances your overall performance on exam day. 

Test-Taking Tips

Understanding the Exam Format and Structure

Exam familiarity is key! Before diving in, ensure you're well-versed in the structure. The ISTQB Agile Tester exam consists of 40 multiple-choice questions, each worth one point, with a passing score of 26 points. You'll have 60 minutes for the exam, with an additional 15 minutes allotted for non-native English speakers. The learning objectives within each chapter categorize knowledge levels as K1 (remembering), K2 (understanding), and K3 (applying). Focus on K1 and K2 areas, as these assess your ability to recall terms and comprehend concepts accurately. Remember, all keywords listed under chapter headings fall under K1 and should be memorized.

Answering Multiple Choice Questions

Master the art of answering multiple-choice questions by carefully reading each option before selecting the answer. Eliminate obviously incorrect choices to enhance your chances of choosing the correct one.

Managing Time During the Exam

While the allotted time might appear ample beforehand, the exam moves at a surprisingly fast pace. Practice managing your time during preparation by setting time limits for practice tests. Remember, the exam duration is 60 minutes (75 minutes for non-native speakers). Allocate your time wisely based on the expected duration for each knowledge level: 1 minute for K1, 1-2 minutes for K2, and 3 minutes for K3. During the exam, prioritize efficient time management across sections to ensure you have enough time to review and revise answers.

Here are some additional test-taking tips to consider:

  • A Clear Mind is Key: Avoid cramming new information the day before the exam. Ensure your mind is well-rested and free from stress for optimal performance.
  • Read All Answer Options: Don't skim the answer choices! Even if some seem wrong at first glance, read them thoroughly. The CTFL-AT exam can present complex questions where some answers might appear more or less correct than others.
  • Don't Panic Over Lengthy Descriptions: Encounter a question with a long description? Skip it for now! Come back later after tackling the other questions. Prioritize clarity over confusion.
  • Online Exam Environment: If taking the exam online, create a distraction-free workspace beforehand. Set up your microphone and camera if required, so you can focus entirely on the exam.
  • Maintain Integrity: Refrain from cheating. Cheating can lead to fines and potential disqualification from the exam process. If you're unsure of an answer or encounter translation difficulties, skip the question and revisit it later if possible.

By adopting these exam preparation and test-taking strategies, along with a deep understanding of the exam structure and time allocation, you'll not only feel more confident but also be well-equipped to conquer the CTFL-AT exam!