CT-PT

The ISTQB Certified Tester - Performance Tester (CT-PT) exam focuses on the practical application of performance testing. The main points covered fall under these broad categories:

1. Performance Testing Fundamentals:

• Defining Performance Requirements: Understanding different performance goals (response time, throughput, resource utilization), defining Service Level Agreements (SLAs), and establishing performance acceptance criteria.
• Performance Testing Process: Knowing the different phases involved, including planning, design, implementation, execution, analysis, and reporting. This includes understanding the iterative nature of performance testing and how it interacts with other testing activities.
• Types of Performance Tests: Familiarity with various testing types like load testing, stress testing, endurance testing, spike testing, volume testing, soak testing, and configuration testing. Understanding their purposes and how they differ.
• Performance Metrics: Knowing key metrics like response time, throughput, resource utilization (CPU, memory, network), error rates, and their interpretation.

2. Performance Test Planning and Design:

• Defining the Scope: Identifying the systems, components, and interfaces to be tested. Understanding the limitations and constraints of the testing environment.
• Test Environment Setup: Knowing the requirements for a realistic and representative test environment, including hardware and software considerations.
• Test Data Management: Understanding the importance of realistic and representative test data and strategies for its creation and management.
• Test Script Development and Execution: Choosing appropriate load generation tools and developing effective test scripts. Understanding different scripting approaches and best practices.

3. Performance Test Execution and Analysis:

• Executing Performance Tests: Running tests, monitoring results in real-time, and handling issues that may arise during testing.
• Analyzing Performance Results: Using various tools and techniques to interpret performance data and identify potential bottlenecks. Correlating findings with performance metrics.
• Reporting and Communication: Preparing clear and concise reports that effectively communicate findings and recommendations to stakeholders. Presenting findings in accessible formats for different audiences.

4. Performance Tuning and Optimization:

• Identifying Performance Bottlenecks: Understanding common performance bottlenecks (database, network, application code) and techniques to identify them.
• Recommending Solutions: Suggesting performance improvements based on found bottlenecks. Knowing the practical implications of proposed solutions.

5. Tools and Technologies:

While the exam doesn't focus on specific tools, it expects you to understand the general functionalities of performance testing tools and their application in the performance testing process. This includes load generators, monitoring tools, and analysis tools.

In summary: The ISTQB CT-PT exam emphasizes a practical and holistic understanding of performance testing throughout the software development lifecycle. It tests your knowledge of planning, designing, executing, analyzing, and reporting performance tests effectively. The emphasis is less on specific tools and more on the underlying principles and methodologies.