easyMultiple ChoiceObjective-mapped
CISA Practice Question: An IS auditor is reviewing the system development…
An IS auditor is reviewing the system development life cycle (SDLC) methodology. Which phase should include the development of detailed test plans?
⚠ Common exam trap
Watch out — candidates often confuse the creation of test plans with the execution of tests, incorrectly assuming that test plans are written during user acceptance testing or coding, when in fact they are a design-phase deliverable that drives all subsequent testing activities.
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
System design.
Detailed test plans should be developed during the system design phase because this is when the system's architecture, interfaces, and data flows are fully specified. Creating test plans at this stage ensures that tests are aligned with the design specifications and can validate that the implemented system meets the intended technical requirements, rather than waiting until after coding.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Requirements definition.
Why it's wrong here
Test plans are not detailed at this stage; only test objectives.
- ✓
System design.
Why this is correct
Design phase specifies how the system will work, enabling detailed test plans.
- ✗
Coding and unit testing.
Why it's wrong here
By then, test plans should already be prepared.
- ✗
User acceptance testing.
Why it's wrong here
UAT uses the test plans but doesn't develop them.
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