Testing Basics and How to Create a Test Case

Anyone who has delved into programming is likely familiar with the "hello world". It is the most basic programming code that we learn and also serves as a means to verify the proper installation and understanding of the source code compiler, program development, or runtime environment.

As a beginner in software testing, you might wonder if there is an equivalent like “hello this is a test” to "hello world" in the testing realm. In this blog, we will introduce some basics of software testing and guide you on creating a simple test case.

First, let's have an understanding of some basic software testing terms. They are very important and fundamental.

Testing Types:

Software testing encompasses various types, including:

• Functional Testing: Verifies that the software functions as intended and meets the specified requirements.
• Performance Testing: Evaluates the system's performance under various conditions, such as load, stress, and scalability.
• Security Testing: Focuses on identifying vulnerabilities and weaknesses in the software's security measures.
• Usability Testing: Assesses the user-friendliness and ease of use of the software.
• Regression Testing: Ensures that recent changes or modifications to the software do not impact existing functionalities.
• Exploratory Testing: Involves simultaneous learning, designing, and executing test cases to uncover defects.

Test Planning:

Before diving into testing, it is crucial to develop a comprehensive test plan. This plan outlines the objectives, scope, timelines, and resources required for the testing process. It helps ensure systematic and efficient testing throughout the software development lifecycle.

Test Strategy:

A test strategy defines the overall approach and guidelines for testing. It includes factors such as test levels, entry and exit criteria, test data management, defect tracking, and risk assessment. A well-defined test strategy helps align testing activities with project goals and objectives.

Test Environment:

Creating a suitable test environment is essential for effective testing. It involves setting up the required hardware, software, and network configurations that replicate the production environment. A stable and representative test environment enhances the accuracy and reliability of test results.

Test Case Design Techniques:

Test case design involves identifying the right scenarios and inputs to test the software thoroughly. Some commonly used techniques include:

Equivalence Partitioning: Dividing input values into groups to reduce redundant test cases.

• Boundary Value Analysis: Testing at the boundaries of input ranges to uncover potential issues.
• Decision Table Testing: Creating a table to represent various combinations of input conditions and corresponding actions.
• State Transition Testing: Evaluating the system's response to different transitions between states.

Defect Tracking and Reporting:

As a tester, your role includes identifying and reporting defects or issues found during testing. Utilizing a defect tracking system helps you capture, prioritize, and track the progress of defect resolution. Clear and detailed defect reports enable developers to understand and address the identified issues effectively.

How to Create a Test Case?

1. Test Case Identification: Create a unique ID for each test case. These IDs should follow a pattern of numbers or letters to reduce confusion when identifying individual cases.
2. Test Description: The test description provides an overview of what is being tested and how it will be validated. The test description commonly follows the sentence structure: "Verify the 'function' by performing 'action' using 'another action'." For example, verify the authentication by using the correct password in Gmail.
3. Preconditions: Preconditions (or prerequisites) are the conditions that must be met before the test can be executed. Without these conditions, the test coverage will be invalid.
4. Test Data: Test data includes any input or data required to execute the test. This may include login credentials, test scripts, or specific URLs.
5. Steps to Execute: These steps need to be followed from the perspective of the end user to validate the ultimate goal. They should be written in a clear and concise manner for the testing team to understand. Using a traceability matrix ensures testing of each condition and functionality.
6. Expected Outcome: The expected outcome describes what should happen on the website if all steps in the test case are followed without any errors.
7. Postconditions: Postconditions are events that should occur as a result of a successful test. For example, if the expected outcome of entering a username and password on a login page is accessing the homepage, then loading the homepage is a postcondition.
8. Actual Results: Did the test case produce the expected results? If not, what were the results? This refers to the actual outcome, which may differ from the expected outcome or show no difference.
9. Pass/Fail: If the expected results are achieved, the test case passes. If not, it fails. What should be done if the test fails? It's time to report the defect! Following the defect lifecycle is necessary for reporting and resolving issues. Regression testing must then be conducted.

Effective test cases are essential for thorough and reliable software testing. With a thorough knowledge of everything about software testing, you can say “Hello this is a test” to your programming friends. If you are also looking for a reliable testing service provider, here WeTest can give you maximum support and solve your problems. For example, if you are testing the compatibility of your application, you can choose monkey testing. Simply upload your application, and the testing will begin, greatly saving you time and effort.