Chapter 4 – Test Analysis & Design
Cause-Effect Graph – ISTQB Definition
Last Updated: July 12, 2026 · SoftwareTestPilot QA Team
Official ISTQB Definition
A graphical representation of inputs (causes) and their associated outputs (effects) that can be used to design test cases.
In simple words
A diagram linking each input condition to the outputs it triggers — used to generate a decision table.
Exam tip
Cause-effect graphing is an older technique; syllabus mentions it, decision-table testing is more common in practice.
Related terms
- Decision TableA grid where each column is a rule: which conditions are true and what the system should do about it.
- Decision Table TestingWhen behaviour depends on combinations of conditions (like discount rules), you list every condition and expected action in a table and turn each column into a test case.
- Functional TestingDoes the feature do what the spec says? Login logs you in, checkout charges the right amount.
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