Agile Tester Extension
Spike (Agile) – ISTQB Definition
Last Updated: July 12, 2026 · SoftwareTestPilot QA Team
Official ISTQB Definition
A time-boxed research or investigation activity used in agile to reduce risk or clarify unknowns before committing to a solution.
In simple words
A short, timeboxed investigation to answer a technical or design question.
Exam tip
Spikes produce knowledge, not shippable code — their output is usually a decision.
Related terms
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