Source Test Case
A source test case is the original test case from which one or more derived or transformed test cases are created.
“A test case that passed and is used as the basis of follow-up test cases in metamorphic testing.”
(Definition reproduced from the ISTQB Glossary. Copyright belongs to ISTQB.)
View the complete ISTQB GlossaryWhat is Source Test Case?
It serves as the primary reference for generating related tests while preserving traceability to the original testing objective.
Original reference: Acts as the starting point for derived tests.
Traceability: Maintains links between related test cases.
Reuse support: Simplifies creation of additional test cases.
Real World Example
A regulated product team is preparing a release where Source test case appears in reviews, test design conversations, or defect triage rather than as an isolated glossary word.
The risk is that the team treats Source test case as interchangeable with nearby ISTQB terms. That makes test scope blurry and can lead to weak evidence for the release decision.
The tester anchors the discussion in the official definition, asks where the concept appears in the product, and designs examples that show the difference between Source test case and similar ideas.
The page becomes useful in practice because Source test case is connected to a specific testing decision, not memorized as a detached definition.
Practice Questions
Question 1
Which statement BEST describes Source test case in the context of ISTQB terminology?
Question 2
A tester needs to explain Source test case to a non‑technical stakeholder. Which approach is MOST appropriate?
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