Path and boundary testing

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Definition

Testing every route through the code (path) and values at the edges of valid ranges (boundary: just inside, on and just outside).

Example: Valid range 1-10: test 0, 1, 10, 11.

Found in: syllabus, sample exam and familiarisation guidelines, school notes.

Short version to memorise (key terms bank)

Test at and either side of the limits.

Where you'll use it in the test

Syllabus area: Y12 SE Project.

Question types it can appear in

Short answer: Give test data (sample Q11, fam Q5)
Multiple choice: Pick the option that matches the definition or example.
Fill in the blanks: Choose this term to complete a statement or table.

Where it has appeared in the paper

The Software Engineering Project (Part B, C). Part letters follow each paper’s own layout.

How to use it

A model sentence

General advice, built from the definition and example above

“Testing every route through the code (path) and values at the edges of valid ranges (boundary: just inside, on and just outside).” Then apply it: Valid range 1-10: test 0, 1, 10, 11.

In a short answer, give the definition in your own words first, then tie it to the situation in the question. Do not copy the example above unless it fits the scenario.

Command words used with it

General advice

No linked question shows the command word for this term. Across the past short answer questions in this bank the words used most are: Explain, Outline, Describe, Compare, Classify, Analyse. Check the actual word in your question.

Official worked answer

Sample exam Q11 (3 marks): Testing (test data) (3 marks): official criteria and sample answer

Criteria

3: Test data that thoroughly tests the algorithm, with expected outputs and reasons. 2: Tests most of the boundaries and paths, with relevant outputs and reasons. 1: Some relevant information.

Sample answer

1024 -> Desktop (boundary check). 768 -> Tablet (boundary check). 100 -> Phone (below lowest screen size check). 850 -> Tablet (between Tablet and Desktop). 2000 -> Desktop (above highest screen size check).

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Go deeper

Flashcard: Path and boundary testing in The Software Engineering Project (Year 12) · study that set
Memorise: Quality assurance, testing methods and test data
Key terms bank entry: Boundary testing
Full term page: every question, note and marking comment for Path and boundary testing

Check yourself

Explain “Path and boundary testing” in one sentence, give an example, and name a question type that could test it.

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