What Is a TQB File? Inside ExamStudio's Exam Format

If you have worked with ExamStudio Editor or ExamStudio Simulator, you have already met the TQB format — even if you didn't think twice about it. Every exam you build or take in ExamStudio lives inside a single .tqb file. In this article we'll look at what a TQB file contains and how to make the most of it.

A whole exam in one file

A TQB file is a self-contained exam package. It bundles everything needed to deliver a complete testing experience:

• Exam structure — sections that group related questions by subject (for example, "Networking" or "Security"), so large exams stay organized.
• Testlets — shared intros shown before a set of questions, ideal for case studies or scenario-based tasks.
• Questions — written with a Word-like rich-text editor, so you can mix formatting, lists and images added with a single click.
• Answer keys — correct answers stored right in the file, along with optional explanations that help candidates understand their mistakes.

Because everything travels in one file, sharing an exam is as easy as sending it over email or messenger — no folders, no dependencies, nothing left behind.

Six question types

The TQB format supports the most widely used certification-style question types:

• Single choice — pick one correct answer from the list.
• Multiple choice — select every answer that applies.
• Fill-in blanks — type the missing word or phrase instead of picking it.
• Hot Point — mark an exact spot on an image.
• Hot Area — choose the correct region or regions of a picture.
• Select and Place — drag answers onto the right places on an image.

Between plain text questions and image-based interactions, you can cover both classic knowledge checks and practical, hands-on scenarios.

Create a TQB file in ExamStudio Editor

1. Download and install ExamStudio Editor for Windows, macOS or Linux.
2. Create a new exam, add sections and testlets, then fill them with questions.
3. For each question, choose its type, add rich text and images, mark the correct answer and — optionally — write an explanation.
4. Save the exam. That's it: you now have a portable .tqb file.

Take a TQB file in ExamStudio Simulator

ExamStudio Simulator loads any TQB file and turns it into a real exam session:

• Practice mode with hints while you answer.
• Score review when you're done — go through your answers, see the correct ones and read the explanations.
• Take notes as you study, then move on and try again.

Start working with TQB today

Both applications are free to try and available for Windows, macOS and Linux:

• Windows: ExamStudio Editor for Windows, ExamStudio Simulator for Windows
• macOS: ExamStudio Editor for macOS, ExamStudio Simulator for macOS
• Linux: ExamStudio Editor for Linux, ExamStudio Simulator for Linux

Create your first exam in the Editor, open it in the Simulator and see how convenient a single-file exam format can be!

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