ISTQB CTAL-TA Practice Questions

Q: How many questions are on the ISTQB CTAL-TA exam?

The CTAL-TA exam has 45 multiple-choice questions totaling 78 points. Questions have varying point values (1-3 points) based on their cognitive level (K-level). You have 120 minutes to complete the exam (150 minutes for non-native English speakers), and need 65% (51 points) to pass.

Q: Which chapter carries the most weight on the CTAL-TA exam?

Chapter 3: Test Techniques carries the most weight with approximately 15-18 questions and ~25 points. It covers advanced black-box techniques including decision tables, state transition testing, pairwise testing, and classification tree method. Dedicate significant study time to mastering these techniques.

Q: How is the CTAL-TA exam different from CTFL?

CTAL-TA is significantly harder: 45 questions vs 40, 120 minutes vs 60, deeper application-focused content vs recall-based, and variable point values. CTAL-TA questions often present scenarios requiring you to apply techniques, not just define them. Expect 6-8 weeks of study compared to 3-4 for CTFL.

Q: What types of questions appear on the CTAL-TA exam?

CTAL-TA questions range from K2 (understanding) to K4 (analysis). K2 questions test comprehension of concepts. K3 questions require applying techniques to scenarios. K4 questions require analyzing situations to determine the best approach. Few pure recall (K1) questions appear at the advanced level.

Q: What score should I aim for on CTAL-TA practice exams?

Aim for 75-80% or higher consistently on practice exams before scheduling the real exam. The 65% passing threshold leaves less margin for error than CTFL. Since questions are scenario-based and some are worth multiple points, understanding is more important than memorization.

Q: Is the CTAL-TA exam offered online?

Yes, most ISTQB exam providers offer both in-person testing centers and online proctored options for CTAL-TA. For online exams, you'll need a reliable internet connection, webcam, and quiet private space. Check with your local ISTQB Member Board for available options.

Q: What are the most common mistakes on the CTAL-TA exam?

Common mistakes include: confusing similar test techniques (knowing WHEN to use each), not reading 'MOST appropriate' questions carefully, focusing on memorization instead of application, underestimating Chapter 3's complexity, and not knowing the ISO 25010 quality model thoroughly.

Q: Can I retake the CTAL-TA exam if I fail?

Yes, you can retake the CTAL-TA exam after a waiting period (typically 1-2 weeks, varies by provider). You'll need to pay the exam fee again. Use the failure feedback to identify weak areas - most providers indicate which chapters need improvement. Focus additional study there before retaking.

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Senior Quality Analyst

Updated: 1/23/2026

This practice exam simulates the ISTQB Advanced Level Test Analyst (CTAL-TA) certification exam. It contains 45 multiple-choice questions covering all chapters of the CTAL-TA syllabus with emphasis on test techniques and quality characteristics.

Exam Details:

Time allowed: 120 minutes
Passing score: 65% (approximately 51 points out of 78)
Question types: Multiple choice with varying point values

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Exam Simulation: For realistic practice, complete all questions before checking answers. Time yourself and avoid looking up materials during the test.

Exam Instructions

Read each question carefully - key words like "MOST appropriate," "FIRST," and "PRIMARY" are critical
Some questions are worth more points than others (1-3 points based on K-level)
No negative marking for incorrect answers
Allocate approximately 2.5 minutes per question
Mark difficult questions and return to them

Question Distribution

Chapter	Topic	Approximate Questions
1	Test Analyst Tasks in Test Process	8-10
2	Risk-Based Testing	4-6
3	Test Techniques	15-18
4	Quality Characteristics	8-10
5	Reviews	3-4
6	Test Tools	2-3

Practice Questions

Quiz on ISTQB CTAL-TA Practice Questions

Your Score: 0/45

Question: 1. During test analysis, a test analyst identifies that a requirement states: 'The system shall process orders quickly.' What should the test analyst do FIRST?

Create test cases to verify order processing speedRequest clarification on what 'quickly' means in measurable termsAssume 'quickly' means under 3 seconds and proceedSkip testing this requirement as it's too vague

After the Practice Exam

Interpreting Your Score

Score Range	Assessment
85%+	Excellent - Well prepared for the exam
70-84%	Good - Review weak areas
65-69%	Borderline - More study recommended
Below 65%	More preparation needed

Focus Areas for Improvement

If you struggled with Chapter 3 (Test Techniques):

Review advanced black-box techniques thoroughly
Practice applying techniques to scenarios
Understand when to use each technique
Work through worked examples for each technique

If you struggled with Chapter 4 (Quality Characteristics):

Memorize the ISO 25010 quality model
Understand what each characteristic means
Know how to test for each characteristic
Review accessibility and usability testing

If you struggled with scenario questions:

Practice identifying which technique applies
Look for keywords in questions
Map scenarios to syllabus concepts
Work through more practice scenarios

Common Mistake Patterns in CTAL-TA

Confusing similar techniques - Know the differences between decision tables, state transitions, and pairwise
Missing the "MOST appropriate" - Multiple options may be correct; choose the best fit
Not applying techniques - Questions require application, not just recall
Overlooking quality characteristics - Know the ISO 25010 model thoroughly

Continue Your Preparation

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) / People Also Ask (PAA)

How many questions are on the ISTQB CTAL-TA exam?

Which chapter carries the most weight on the CTAL-TA exam?

How is the CTAL-TA exam different from CTFL?

What types of questions appear on the CTAL-TA exam?

What score should I aim for on CTAL-TA practice exams?

Is the CTAL-TA exam offered online?

What are the most common mistakes on the CTAL-TA exam?

Can I retake the CTAL-TA exam if I fail?

Testing Quality Characteristics Technical Test Analyst Guide