Chapter 2 – Testing Throughout the SDLC
Refactoring – ISTQB Definition
Last Updated: July 12, 2026 · SoftwareTestPilot QA Team
Official ISTQB Definition
The process of restructuring existing computer code without changing its external behavior, to improve its internal structure.
In simple words
Clean up the code without changing what it does.
Exam tip
A strong regression test suite makes refactoring safe.
Related terms
- Technical DebtShortcuts in code that cost you extra time later to fix or work around.
- Regression TestingAfter any change — bug fix, new feature, config update — you re-run existing tests to make sure nothing that used to work has broken.
- Test-Driven DevelopmentRed-green-refactor: write a failing test, make it pass with the simplest code, then clean up.
Practice this term in the ISTQB Mock Test
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