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• Software Engineering

• Software Testing Interview Questions and Answers

Software testing means the process of assessing a software product for quality. It is a comprehensive process that forms an integral part of the software development life cycle (SDLC).

Owing to the exponential growth in software development and web apps' emergence, more and more people are focusing on learning software testing . This allows them to bag lucrative roles in the domain of software testing, ranging from software testers to testing leads and managers.

Software testing is a comprehensive domain that involves more than a few concepts, tools, approaches, methodologies, etc. Breaking into software testing or advancing in the same requires a good knowledge of so many concepts about the craft of software testing.

Here is our pick of the top 50 software testing interview questions and answers that will help you gain a role in software testing or, at least, let you gauge your preparation and progress thus far:

Question: What is the Software Testing Life Cycle ?

Answer: Software Testing Life Cycle refers to the systematic process of software testing. STLC defines the entire thing, from the start to the end. It is composed of several sub-processes called phases, which are:

• Requirements Gathering
• Requirements Analysis
• Test Planning
• Test Case Development
• Environment Setup
• Test Execution
• Test Cycle Closure

Question: Please explain the various strategies of software testing.

Answer: There are three types of software testing:

• Black Box Testing - Based completely on testing requirements and specifications. Demands no knowledge about:
• Internal paths,
• Code structures, or
• Software implementation.
• White Box Testing - Necessitates advanced programming skills. This testing strategy builds upon the internal paths, code structures, and software implementation.
• Grey Box Testing - This software testing strategy falls between the domains of black box and white box testing strategies. Here, the internal details of the software under testing are little-known.

Question: Can you name the various levels of software testing?

Answer: Usually, software testing starts with unit testing and sums up with acceptance testing. The hierarchy followed is; unit testing -> integration testing -> system testing -> acceptance testing.

Question: What do you mean by Bug Life Cycle?

Answer: Bug Life Cycle explains the various phases of a software bug or defect's entire lifetime. It starts with detecting a bug and sums up when the same is closed, and it is ensured that it will not reproduce. It’s various phases are:

• Detection/new
• Reopened (goes to the Active phase)

The Bug Life Cycle, also known as Defect Life Cycle, varies according to a range of factors, most notably organization policy and the SDLC methodology used, such as agile or RAD . Other Defect Life Cycle shaping factors include project timelines and team structure.

Question: Could you define a test case?

Answer: A test case can be defined as that particular set of conditions and/or variables under which a software tester determines whether the system/software under testing works correctly and satisfies the specified requirements or not.

Question: Please compare functional and non-functional forms of testing?

Answer: Following are the important differences between functional testing and non-functional testing:

• Based On - While functional testing is based on customer requirements, non-functional testing is based on customer expectations.
• Defines - Functional testing describes what aspect of a software product. Non-functional testing, on the other hand, defines how the aspect of a software application.
• Order of Performing - Non-functional testing follows functional testing.

Question: State the difference between validation and verification in software testing.

Answer: While validation is a dynamic analysis technique, verification is a static analysis technique. We execute the code invalidation, whereas no code execution takes place in verification.

Inspection, reviews, and walkthroughs are examples of verification, while functional and non-functional testing comes under validation.

Question: Please explain the various categories of defects?

Answer: Following are the three primary categories of software defects:

• Wrong - Results when there is a deviation from the given specifications. This type of defect occurs when requirements are implemented incorrectly.
• Missing - Happens when customer specifications are missed, i.e., they are not implemented. Might also happen when customer requirements are not clear but implemented.
• Extra - Caused by requirements that are implemented but are not provided by the customer(s). Although this type of defect is variances from the customer specifications, they might be desired by the end-users.

Question: What do you need to prepare the acceptance plan?

Answer: We need the following for making the acceptance plan:

• Requirements Document - Specifies the needs of the customer.
• Customer Input - Gained through discussion, emails, et cetera.
• Project Plan - Finalizes the acceptance test.

Question: Please define coverage and its types.

Answer: Coverage is the parameter that specifies the extent to which the source code is tested. It is of the following three types:

• Statement Coverage - Ensures that every line of the source code is executed and tested.
• Decision Coverage - Ensures that every decision-making part of the source code is executed and tested.
• Path Coverage - Ensures that every possible execution path of the source code is executed and tested.

Question: Can you list some advantages of automation testing?

Answer: There are several benefits of employing automation testing. Some of the most notable ones are:

• Allows parallel execution.
• Makes unattended execution possible.
• Reduces human error.
• Saves money and time.
• Supports testing a big test matrix.

The Complete 2024 Software Testing Bootcamp

Question: What are the benefits of employing Selenium?

Answer: Selenium is an open-source automation testing tool that has several perks, including:

• Allows testing on macOS, Linux, and Windows platforms.
• Continuous testing is made possible by integration with Docker, Jenkins, etc.
• Extensive web browser support, such as Firefox, IE, Google Chrome, and Safari.
• Integration support for other tools, such as JUnit, for test case management and report generation.
• No licensing costs.
• Support for a wide range of programming languages for writing test scripts, such as C#, Java, PHP, and Python.

Question: List the various components of Selenium?

Answer: Various components of Selenium are:

• Selenium Grid
• Selenium IDE
• Selenium Remote Control (RC)
• Selenium WebDriver

Check out the 50 best Selenium interview questions .

Question: Please define XPath.

Answer: XPath stands for XML Path. It is meant for querying XML documents. XPath consists of a path expression paired with certain conditions. One can leverage the XPath script or query to locate a webpage element conveniently. XPath also produces reliable locators.

Question: What Do you know about Absolute XPath and Relative XPath?

Answer: Absolute XPath is a direct way to reach a webpage element. Relative XPath, on the other hand, starts from the middle of the HTML DOM structure. Unlike Absolute XPath, Relative XPath starts with a double forward slash, //.

Question: Please explain the relationship between environment reality and test phases.

Answer: The importance of environment reality increases with the progress in software testing. It is low during the early testing phases and highest during the final testing phase.

Usually, environment reality is required to be only about 10% real during the phase involving unit testing, i.e., the earliest software testing phase. However, the same is almost 100% real by the time the acceptance testing phase kicks in.

Question: In your opinion, what will happen to the cost of a software product in which a defect that could have been removed during the initial stage of testing is removed/fixed later?

Answer: The right-hand thumb rule for software testing is that the later the defect is removed, the more costly it’s removal becomes. The best phases to remove the defects are the requirements and design phases.

Defects escaping the design and requirements phases can become as much as:

• 5 times costlier to remove in the execution/development phase,
• 8 times costlier when removed during the testing phase,
• 10 times costlier to remove during the implementation/deployment phase, and
• 20 times costlier when removed during the maintenance phase of the software product.

Question: Could you explain confirmation and regression testing?

• Regression Testing - Software testing about checking for a code change's impact on the existing features.
• Confirmation Testing - This is software testing about whether a defect that was earlier encountered properly taken care of or not.

Question: Please explain boundary value analysis.

Answer: Boundary-value Analysis , a.k.a. BVA, comes under the black box test design techniques. It is applied to check whether bugs/defects present at the boundary of the input domain.

Question: Can you define random testing?

Answer: Random testing involves generating and using random data. This is done by using a tool and/or automation. Once the random input data is generated, it is then tested and observed.

Question: Why do we write black-box test cases first and not white box test cases?

Answer: Black box test cases are typically written first, followed by white box test cases, which require a good level of architecture clarity. This is unavailable during the early stages of the project; hence, it is impossible to write white box test cases early.

Unlike white box test cases, black-box test cases, demand requirements document, and design/project plan. These are available early in the project. Hence, we write black-box test cases first.

Question: Please enlist the various basic components of the defect report format?

Answer: Following are the various basic components of the defect report format:

• Defect detected by.
• Defect detected on.
• Defect ID and Name.
• Defect resolved by.
• Defect resolved on.
• Module Name.
• Priority and Severity status.
• Project Name.
• Defect Snapshot.

Question: What test cases can we automate?

Answer: We can automate the following test cases:

• Complex calculation,
• Data-driven,
• Non-functional,
• Regression, and

Question: Can you name parameters that give out the efficiency of automation testing?

Answer: We can use the following for assessing the efficiency of automation testing:

• Defect detection ratio.
• Execution time.
• Time is taken to release the product.
• The degree of labor and cost reduction.

Question: What do you understand by exploratory testing?

Answer: Exploratory testing refers to the approach of software testing involving less planning and more test execution. The planning in exploratory testing includes creating a test charter that defines:

• The scope of a short time-boxed test effort,
• The objectives, and
• The testing approaches.

In exploratory testing, the test design and test execution go hand in hand with testing. This means that there is little to no documentation of test conditions.

Question: Please explain the traceability matrix?

Answer: Software testing leverages a document that shows the relationship between test cases and testing requirements. This is called the traceability matrix. It is actually a technique used in black-box testing.

Question: How does the test matrix differ from the traceability matrix?

Answer: The test matrix documents actual quality, effort, test plan, resources, and time required to go through all software testing phases. Traceability matrix, on the contrary, is related specifically to black-box testing for mapping customer requirements with test cases.

Question: What do you understand by equivalence partitioning testing?

Answer: The equivalence partitioning testing method decreases the time required for performing software testing. This technique involves dividing the application input test data into several partitions to derive test cases.

Question: Can you differentiate between dynamic and static testing?

Answer: Static testing is accomplished using software documentation. No code execution takes place in this type of testing. Dynamic testing, however, requires code execution.

Question: What is a test plan composed of?

Answer: The test plan document details various testing activities for delivering a quality product. It is derived from the Product Descriptions, SRS, or Use Case documents and prepared by a Test Lead or Test Manager. A test plan details the following things:

• Features that are meant to be tested.
• Features that aren’t meant to be tested.
• Pass/fail criteria.
• Responsibilities.
• Scope of the test.
• Software risk and contingencies.
• Software testing approach.
• Staffing and training needs.
• Test case identifier.
• Test deliverables.
• Test items.
• Testing approach and strategy.

Question: How will you resolve issues encountered while testing?

Answer: There are three important ways to manage testing issues:

• Control - Define the issue management process.
• Record - Log issues found while testing.
• Report - Report the issues found to the senior.

Question: How is a test case different from a test script and a test scenario?

Answer: A test case is a document that specifies steps to be followed when performing software testing. A test scenario, on the other hand, refers to functionality that needs testing. It is sometimes also referred to as a test condition or test possibility.

Unlike a test case, a test script is a short program or the actual code that helps test a software product or part of its functionality that is meant for testing.

Question: Please explain a latent defect?

Answer: A latent defect is a type of defect that, although existing in the system, doesn’t cause a failure or issue with the software product. A defect remains latent until all its conditions are fully met.

Question: What are the parameters that we use for gauging the quality of test execution?

Answer: Two parameters are there that can give us some info about the quality of test execution. These are:

• Defect Rejection Ratio - Pertains to the total number of defects rejected to the total number of defects raised.
• Defect Leakage Ratio - This refers to the total number of defects missed to the total number of defects in the software.

Question: What do you know about the software testing tool Phantom?

Answer: Phantom is used for Windows GUI automation scripting language. It is a freeware that allows users to control Windows and its functions automatically. Phantom can simulate any combination of keystrokes, mouse clicks, menus, lists, et cetera.

Question: Please explain test deliverables.

Answer: Test deliverables refer to the set of documents, tools, etc. that must be produced and maintained for supporting testing. Each phase of the SDLC corresponds to different test deliverables.

Question: What is the purpose of mutation testing?

Answer: Mutation testing intends to check the usefulness of a set of test cases or test data. This is done by intentionally making changes in the code, introducing bugs. Then, the original test cases/data are subjected to retesting with the purpose of bug detection.

Question: What things should you consider before choosing an automation testing tool?

Answer: There are a galore of factors that you need to consider before performing automation testing. These are:

• Application stability.
• Execution across environments.
• Level of complexity.
• Reusability of automated testing scripts.
• Size of the application.
• Technical feasibility.

Question: Please mention the steps followed for conducting risk analysis?

• Find the score.
• Prepare a profile.
• Change the risk properties.
• Deploy the resources.
• Make a database.

Question: Can you explain the various categories of debugging?

Answer: Following are the various categories of debugging:

• Brute force.
• Backtracking.
• Cause elimination.
• Fault free analysis.
• Program slicing.

Question: Please explain configuration management.

Answer: Configuration Management or CM is a process of systems engineering. It is intended to maintain:

• Computer systems,
• System resources,
• Software, and
• Product performance.

Configuration management records all the changes made to the system and ensures that it performs as per the expectations despite future changes or modifications. Typically, we use tools for configuration management, such as Ansible, Chef, and Puppet.

Question: What are some best practices for effective software quality assurance (SQA)?

Answer: Important SQA best practices are:

• Continuous improvement.
• Documentation.
• Involvement of experienced SQA auditors.
• Leveraging Tools.
• Use of Metrics.

Question: What is the difference between Quality Assurance (QA) and Quality Control (QC)?

Answer: Quality Assurance ensures the prevention of defects in software making. It involves process-oriented activities. Quality Control, on the other hand, refers to executing a software application or code for identifying defects in the same. It involves product-oriented activities.

Question: Can you explain test closure?

Answer: Test closure refers to the note prepared just before the testing process is formally complete. It contains the total number of:

• Defects found,
• Defects fixed,
• Defects not fixed,
• Test cases,
• Test cases executed,
• Bugs rejected, etc.

Question: Explain the various tasks related to testing closure activities.

Answer: All test closure activities can be grouped into 4 main categories:

• Test Completion Check - Ensures all tests should either run or be intentionally skipped. All known defects should be either fixed or deferred for some future release or accepted as permanent restrictions.
• Test Artifacts Handover - Ensures test cases and test environments are handed over to those appointed for performing maintenance testing. It also ensures that known defects, whether accepted or deferred, must be well documented and passed to those meant to use and support the system's use.
• Lessons Learned - Analyzing testing for knowing changes required for future releases. Ensures keeping up good practices and dropping poor practices.
• Updating Configuration Management System - Archiving logs, reports, results, etc. in the configuration management system.

Question: What do you understand by the pesticide paradox?

Answer: When the same software test cases are repeated repeatedly, there comes a time when doing so will yield no more new bugs. This is called the pesticide paradox. To overcome it, test cases need to be reviewed and updated regularly.

Question: Can you explain decision table testing?

Answer: This type of testing is used for functionalities featuring logical relationships between inputs. Here, we have different combinations of inputs. In the decision table testing terminology, inputs are called conditions, and outputs are called actions. A Decision Table is also called a Cause-Effect Table.

Question: What do you understand by the workbench concept?

Answer: The workbench concept is an efficient way of planning how a particular activity will be performed. Each workbench has the following five tasks associated with it:

• Production output

Question: Please explain defect cascading.

Answer: Defect cascading is the phenomenon when a defect results in yielding other defects in a software product. This happens when software testing fails to identify defects in a particular phase of the STLC.

Question: Can you explain LCSAJ?

Answer: LCSAJ means Linear Code Sequence And Jump. It consists of three parts:

• Start of the linear sequence of executable statements,
• End of the linear sequence, and
• The target line to where the control flow is transferred post the end of the linear sequence.

That completes our list of the best 50 software testing interview questions. I hope you find it helpful in advancing your software testing career. If software testing interests you then you may want to check out software testing courses and certifications as well. You may want to check out Manual Testing Interview Questions here.

Which questions were the most difficult for you? Let us know via comments. All the best!

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A Computer Science graduate interested in mixing up imagination and knowledge into enticing words. Been in the big bad world of content writing since 2014. In his free time, Akhil likes to play cards, do guitar jam, and write weird fiction.

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How to Write Test Cases for Software: Examples & Tutorial

Writing test cases is paramount to software development. Test cases help software testers understand their test's requirements and scope. Read on to learn how to write proper test cases with automated testing tools from Parasoft.

How to write test cases might not seem like such an important part of development. But in order for a software tester to best perform their job, they need a crystal clear set of steps to follow and a clear definition of what is being tested.

Everyone from NASA and GE to enterprise-level corporations can benefit from teams operating at their best. Writing excellent test cases is just one more way to enhance team efficiency and efficacy and Parasoft is all about empowering teams to do just that.

In this blog, we cover the following topics related to how to write a test case:

• What is a test case?
• Test script vs. test case
• Different test case types
• How to write software test cases
• Standard test case format
• Test case writing best practices
• Test suite vs. test plan
• Test case writing tools

See how you can create useful & reusable test cases to make API functional testing easier with AI-enhanced test automation.

What is a test case in software.

A test case is exactly what it sounds like: a test scenario measuring functionality across a set of actions or conditions to verify the expected result. They apply to any software application, can use manual testing or an automated test , and can make use of test case management tools.

A key thing to remember when it comes to writing test cases is that they are intended to test a basic variable or task such as whether or not a discount code applies to the right product on an e-commerce web page. This allows a software tester more flexibility in how to test code and features.

Optimizing Unit and Regression Testing for Embedded Systems

Test script vs. test case.

The difference between test cases vs. test scripts should also be clarified. A test script is a short program meant to test certain functionality. A test case is a document with steps to be completed as planned out ahead of time.

Consider test cases as a meticulously planned trip and test scripts to be more like a quick trip to the grocery store.

Different Types of Test Cases

Test cases can measure many different aspects of code. The steps involved may also be intended to induce a Fail result as opposed to a positive expected result such as when a user inputs the wrong password on a login screen.

Some common test case examples would be the following:

Test cases can be applied to any number of features found in any given software. Some of the most popular include:

• API testing example  – See it in action.
• UI testing example  – See it in action.
• Unit testing example  – See it in action.
• Load & performance testing example  – See it in action.
• Security testing
• SQL queries
• Low-code application testing

A Popular Test Case Example

Test cases come in handy in a variety of software scenarios. Everything from banking to personal software requires a test case application. For example, if the goal is to have encrypted, sensitive data, the software needs to have features that work as intended.

But functional testing is just one aspect of writing a test case. Software testing should robustly challenge every aspect of the code from performance to compatibility to security. That’s why personal encryption software needs to be tested so thoroughly — especially when it comes to things like Web APIs .

How to Write Software Test Cases

Writing test cases varies depending on what the test case is measuring or testing. This is also a situation where sharing test assets across dev and test teams can accelerate software testing. But it all starts with knowing how to write a test case effectively and efficiently.

Test cases have a few integral parts that should always be present in fields. However, every test case can be broken down into 8 basic steps.

Step 1: Test Case ID

Test cases should all bear unique IDs to represent them. In most cases, following a convention for this naming ID helps with organization, clarity, and understanding.

Step 2: Test Description

This description should detail what unit, feature, or function is being tested or what is being verified.

Step 3: Assumptions and Pre-Conditions

This entails any conditions to be met before test case execution. One example would be requiring a valid Outlook account for a login.

Step 4: Test Data

This relates to the variables and their values in the test case. In the example of an email login, it would be the username and password for the account.

Step 5: Steps to be Executed

These should be easily repeatable steps as executed from the end user’s perspective. For instance, a test case for logging into an email server might include these steps:

• Open email server web page.
• Enter username.
• Enter password.
• Click “Enter” or “Login” button.

Step 6: Expected Result

This indicates the result expected after the test case step execution. Upon entering the right login information, the expected result would be a successful login.

Step 7: Actual Result and Post-Conditions

As compared to the expected result, we can determine the status of the test case. In the case of the email login, the user would either be successfully logged in or not. The post-condition is what happens as a result of the step execution such as being redirected to the email inbox.

Step 8: Pass/Fail

Determining the pass/fail status depends on how the expected result and the actual result compare to each other.

Same result = Pass Different results = Fail

Accelerate Software Testing by Sharing Test Assets Across Dev & Test Teams

Standard unit test case format.

Each part of a well-written unit test will define several core aspects including:

• Functions performed by the test
• Data used in the test
• Expected result from the test execution
• Ensuring the test was executed in isolation from other parts of the codebase

It’s important to know that the standard format of well-written tests is composed of the following parts:

• Meaningful test method name
• Controlled data or mocks to be used for testing
• Method or unit under test (the part of code we are testing)
• Applying an assertion
• Executing the unit test in isolation

Is There a Test Case Template?

As mentioned, there is a standard test case format. However, the test case template would likely vary from company to company and even from team to team. Instead, a test case template is the document with a list of test scenarios and subsequent test cases.

Quality Test Case Example

Though test cases will vary based on the type of testing and overall field of testing, building a quality test case comes down to those few reliable items above. Remember: the name of the test method must include the method or unit under test and what is the expected outcome.

It should also be noted that each unit should be tested in isolation. In this case, “isolation” means keeping tests focused as much as possible in order to execute only the piece of the application we are testing for.

This example comes from a banking-related test case:

With this method name, we know that this is a unit test that is:

• Testing the method ‘isOverDrawn()’.
• The balanced used for the controlled data was 500.
• The expected result is true.

A meaningful method name allows anyone reviewing the results to understand what the unit test was testing for. Moreover, it signals the data to be tested, the expected result, and what was tested.

If the test fails, knowing the expected result is critical in allowing for easier troubleshooting and ensuring no regressions are introduced .

Test Case Data

The data used needs to be enough to execute the test. For unit testing, we want to make it as simple as possible to test the most basic unit of our application. The data could be as simple as making a string or object variable for which you can control the data. Or a mock framework can be used for the test if a dependency is not available or you need that dependency to be in a specific state.

Having just enough to test that one part if sufficient. You DO NOT need to configure every piece of the application for the test to run.

All of this affects how the unit test will behave since this is the data being used for unit test execution. As such, this part of unit testing is the most time consuming as it requires some understanding of the code you are testing to know what data to use for testing.

Keep it simple by using just the parts needed for the code being tested. Mocks are very useful in this phase as they allow you to control how methods from those objects will behave when interacting with your test.

For example, given the following data:

We avoided the “real customer class” by using a mock for the “customer class” for testing isolation. We do not want to introduce nor configure another object for this test as it adds another layer of maintainability for that object, and it is not affecting the result of the method under test.

The next variable to be created is the “initial balance”—something known due to knowledge of the code. The next line shows the Account object being created along with the mock and the Initial Balance to prepare the method we are testing for with the data we just used.

So in this example, the account object is configured with the mock customer since we do not care about the customer object’s data and we passed an initial balance that we can control for our test.

The next line defines the input as the method under test requires a number to be used. We defined the “balance” to be used in the method we are testing for. Then the method is executed with the result of the method being stored in our variable for us to use later.

Applying an Assertion

Once the test can complete successfully (as in it runs from start to finish with no exceptions or errors), then it is time to apply an assertion to the unit test. Without the assertion, the unit test is meaningless since there is nothing you are enforcing to ensure it is working as intended.

Collecting coverage of what lines were executed does tell what was executed but it does not provide enough detail to determine the following:

• If the code is behaving as expected.
• If the code meets quality targets.
• If the data returned is the expected data.

An assertion can be as basic as:

As long as the unit test contains one assertion that is checking the method under test result, this is a meaningful unit test.

By applying the standard format of unit test, a team can easily maintain, read, and/or update tests with more ease to readily see where more testing can be applied to the rest of the application.

What Are the Best Practices for Writing Quality Test Cases?

How to write effective tests and test cases can be streamlined over time. Some best practices include using strong titles, strong descriptions, and keeping the language concise and clear.

But you’ll also want to include preconditions, assumptions, and the expected results, too. All of this information is relevant for the software tester — especially when determining whether the test case should be a “pass” or a “fail” instead.

A cheat sheet for creating test cases that work well is as follows:

• Keep things simple and transparent.
• Make test cases reusable.
• Keep test case IDs unique.
• Peer review is important .
• Test cases should have the end user or defined requirements in mind.
• Specify expected results and assumptions.

Simple, unique, specific, open to feedback, and focused on reusability: that’s the way of a great test case. For a more visual look at how to write a quality test case, check out Parasoft’s webinar on the subject.

Test Suite vs. Test Plan

The other aspect of a test case involves test suites and test plans. These differ in key ways and both are vital to accurate test case development.

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What is a test suite.

A test suite comes into play for test cases as it relates to source code, the collection of dependencies, or the suite of tests to be performed on code. Test suites allow you to categorize test cases in ways that align with any analysis or planning needs.

This means that core software features might have their own test suite while another test suite is for a specific testing type such as smoke or security. Think of test suites as a bookshelf to organize your test cases on.

What Is a Test Plan?

In contrast, a test plan is more like the umbrella that stands over all of the test suites. If test cases are books and test suites are bookshelves, then test plans are the room that contains the bookshelf.

Generally, test plans are set up in terms of manual tests, automated tests, and a general format of how to go about testing. They’ll test the software from the foundation up utilizing test suites and test cases before implementing changes or adding new features.

Best Test Case Writing Tools

Parasoft generally develops its tools and suites with the “George Jetson” theory in mind. That is to say that we want our clients to be able to “press a button” and have everything taken care of. While this isn’t totally realistic, tools that have this focus on automation are the best to use when it comes to writing test cases.

Not only can they assist with automation, but they can help from the very beginning of development. After all, it’s too easy to get bogged down by small details or features. One might forget that software just has to function first. That’s where a Java unit testing tool like Parasoft Jtest comes in.

This tool allows beginners and experts alike to improve their unit testing skills more quickly, as well as the unit testing experience. After establishing a foundation, it executes the unit tests then guides the user to ensure that the tests are meaningful. When you can understand the kinds of things to look for in a test, test case writing becomes less intimidating.

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• Difference Between Object-Oriented Testing and Conventional Testing

How to write Test Cases – Software Testing

Software testing is known as a process for validating and verifying the working of a software/application. It makes sure that the software is working without any errors, bugs, or any other issues and gives the expected output to the user. The software testing process isn’t limited to finding faults in the present software but also finding measures to upgrade the software in various factors such as efficiency, usability, and accuracy. So, to test software the software testing provides a particular format called a Test Case . 

This article focuses on discussing the following topics in the Test Case:

What is a Test Case?

• Test Case vs Test Scenario.
• When do we Write Test Cases?
• Why Write Test Cases?
• Test Case Template.
• Best Practice for Writing Test Cases.
• Test Case Management Tools.
• Formal and Informal Test Case.
• Types of Test Cases.

A test case is a defined format for software testing required to check if a particular application/software is working or not. A test case consists of a certain set of conditions that need to be checked to test an application or software i.e. in more simple terms when conditions are checked it checks if the resultant output meets with the expected output or not. A test case consists of various parameters such as ID, condition, steps, input, expected result, result, status, and remarks.

Parameters of a Test Case: 

• Module Name: Subject or title that defines the functionality of the test. 
• Test Case Id: A unique identifier assigned to every single condition in a test case. 
• Tester Name: The name of the person who would be carrying out the test. 
• Test scenario: The test scenario provides a brief description to the tester, as in providing a small overview to know about what needs to be performed and the small features, and components of the test.  
• Test Case Description: The condition required to be checked for a given software. for eg. Check if only numbers validation is working or not for an age input box. 
• Test Steps: Steps to be performed for the checking of the condition. 
• Prerequisite: The conditions required to be fulfilled before the start of the test process. 
• Test Priority: As the name suggests gives priority to the test cases that had to be performed first, or are more important and that could be performed later. 
• Test Data: The inputs to be taken while checking for the conditions. 
• Test Expected Result: The output which should be expected at the end of the test. 
• Test parameters: Parameters assigned to a particular test case. 
• Actual Result: The output that is displayed at the end. 
• Environment Information: The environment in which the test is being performed, such as the operating system, security information, the software name, software version, etc.  
• Status: The status of tests such as pass, fail, NA, etc. 
• Comments: Remarks on the test regarding the test for the betterment of the software. 

Below are some of the points of difference between a test case and a test scenario:

When do we Write Test Cases? 

Test cases are written in different situations:

• Before development: Test cases could be written before the actual coding as that would help to identify the requirement of the product/software and carry out the test later when the product/software gets developed. 
• After development: Test cases are also written directly after coming up with a product/software or after developing the feature but before the launching of a product/software as needed to test the working of that particular feature. 
• During development: Test cases are sometimes written during the development time, parallelly. so whenever a part of the module/software gets developed it gets tested as well.   

So, test cases are written in such cases, as test cases help in further development and make sure that we are meeting all the needed requirements. 

Why Write Test Cases?   

Test cases are one of the most important aspects of software engineering, as they define how the testing would be carried out. Test cases are carried out for a very simple reason, to check if the software works or not. There are many advantages of writing test cases:

• To check whether the software meets customer expectations: Test cases help to check if a particular module/software is meeting the specified requirement or not. 
• To check software consistency with conditions: Test cases determine if a particular module/software works with a given set of conditions. 
• Narrow down software updates: Test cases help to narrow down the software needs and required updates.
• Better test coverage: Test cases help to make sure that all possible scenarios are covered and documented. 
• For consistency in test execution: Test cases help to maintain consistency in test execution. A well-documented test case helps the tester to just have a look at the test case and start testing the application. 
• Helpful during maintenance: Test cases are detailed which makes them helpful during the maintenance phase. 

Test Case Template

Let’s look at a basic test case template for the login functionality. 

• The Test case template contains the header section which has a set of parameters that provides information about the test case such as the tester’s name, test case description, Prerequisite, etc. 
• The body section contains the actual test case content, such as test ID, test steps, test input, expected result, etc. 

Below is the table that shows the basic template of a test case:

In the given template below it’s identifiable that the section from module name to test scenario is the header section while the table that lies below the test scenario (from test case ID to comments) is the body of the test case template.     

Here a test case template for login functionality has been created with its parameters and values. 

Best Practice for Writing Test Case

There are certain practices that one could follow while writing the test cases that would be considered beneficial. 

• Simple and clear: Test cases need to be very concise, clear, and transparent. They should be easy and simple to understand not only for oneself but for others as well. 
• Maintaining the client/customer/end-user requirements must be unique : While writing the test cases, it’s necessary to make sure that they aren’t being written over and over again and that each case is different from the others. 
• Zero Assumptions: Test cases should not contain assumed data, and don’t come up with features/modules that don’t exist. 
• Traceability: Test cases should be traceable for future reference, so while writing it’s important to keep that in mind, 
• Different input data: While writing test cases, all types of data must be taken into consideration. 
• Strong module name: The module name should be self-explanatory while writing the test case.  
• Minimal Description: The description of a test case should be small, one or two lines are normally considered good practice, but it should give the basic overview properly. 
• Maximum conditions: All kinds of conditions should be taken into consideration while writing a test, increasing the effectiveness. 
• Meeting requirements: While writing the test case the client/customer/end-user requirements must be met.
• Repetitive Results: The test case must be written in such a way that it should provide the same result. 
• Different Techniques: Sometimes testing all conditions might not be possible but using different testing with different test cases could help to check every aspect of a software. 
• Create test cases with the end user’s perspective: Create test cases by keeping end-user in mind and the test cases must meet customer requirements.
• Use unique Test Case ID: It is considered a good practice to use a unique Test Case ID for the test cases following a naming convention for better understanding.
• Add proper preconditions and postconditions: Preconditions and postconditions for the test cases must be mentioned properly and clearly.
• Test cases should be reusable: There are times when the developer updates the code, then the testers need to update the test cases to meet the changing requirements.
• Specify the exact expected outcome: Include the exact expected result, which tells us what will be result of a particular test step.

Test Case Management Tools

Test management tools help to manage the test cases. These tools are automated tools that decrease the time and effort of a tester as compared to the traditional way. Some test case management tools include advanced dashboards, easier bug, and progress tracking as well as management, custom test case templates, integration of test cases, inviting guest testers, managing team requirements and plans, and much more.

Below are some of the test case management tools:

• Testpad: Testpad is a simple tool that makes test case management easier. The software’s main motto says that it aims to find a bug that matters. A few features of Testpad include manual testing, reports of the test cases and software, dragging and dropping to make testing easier, inviting guest testers by email, building custom templates, and much more. 
• TestCaseLab: TestCaseLab is easily manageable for the test cases and could swiftly integrate them with bug trackers. The features of TestCaseLab include Custom test cases, Test Runs, Integrations of test cases, Test Plans, tags and priority for test cases, search by name of test cases, description, tags, etc. 
• TestRail: TestRail is another platform that aims to make test case management easier, it streamlines the software testing processes and along with more visibility into QA. The basic features of TestRail include management for test cases, plans, and runs, more test coverage, real-time insights into the QA progress, etc. 
• TestLodge: TestLodge is a test case management tool that helps the entire team manage their requirements, test plans, test cases, and test runs all in one single place and with no user limit. The basic features of TestLodge include Test Plans, Test Runs, a Dashboard, a Test Suite, and many more.

Formal and Informal Test Case

• Formal Test Cases: Formal test cases are test cases that follow the basic test case format. It contains the test case parameters such as conditions, ID, Module name, etc. Formal Test cases have set input data and expected results, they are performed as per the given order of steps. 
• Informal Test Cases: Informal test cases are test cases that don’t follow the basic test case format. In these, as the tests are performed the test cases are written in real-time then pre-writing them, and the input and expected results are not predefined as well.

Types of Test Cases

• Functionality Test Case: The functionality test case is to determine if the interface of the software works smoothly with the rest of the system and its users or not. Black box testing is used while checking for this test case, as we check everything externally and not internally for this test case. 
• Unit Test Case: In unit test case is where the individual part or a single unit of the software is tested. Here each unit/ individual part is tested, and we create a different test case for each unit.  
• User Interface Test Case: The UI test or user interface test is when every component of the UI that the user would come in contact with is tested. It is to test if the UI components requirement made by the user are fulfilled or not.  
• Integration Test Case: Integration testing is when all the units of the software are combined and then they are tested. It is to check that each component and its units work together without any issues. 
• Performance Test Case: The performance test case helps to determine response time as well as the overall effectiveness of the system/software. It’s to see if the application will handle real-world expectations. 
• Database Test Case: Also known as back-end testing or data testing checks that everything works fine concerning the database. Testing cases for tables, schema, triggers, etc. are done. 
• Security Test Case: The security test case helps to determine that the application restricts actions as well as permissions wherever necessary. Encryption and authentication are considered as main objectives of the security test case. The security test case is done to protect and safeguard the data of the software. 
• Usability Test Case: Also known as a user experience test case, it checks how user-friendly or easy to approach a software would be. Usability test cases are designed by the User experience team and performed by the testing team. 
• User Acceptance Test Case: The user acceptance case is prepared by the testing team but the user/client does the testing and review if they work in the real-world environment.   

Below is an example of preparing various test cases for a login page with a username and password.

Unit Test case: Here we are only checking if the username validates at least for the length of eight characters.

Here it is only checked whether the passing of input of thirteen characters is valid or not. So since the character word ‘geeksforgeeks’ is entered then the test is successful it would have failed for any other test case.  

  Functionality Test case: Here it is checked whether the username and password both work together on the login click.

Here it is being checked whether passing wrong and right inputs and if the login functionality is working or not, it’s showing login is successful for the right credentials and unsuccessful for the wrong ones, hence both tests have passed otherwise would have failed.

User Acceptance Test Case: Here the user feedback is taken if the login page is loading properly or not.

Here it is being checked in by clicking on the login button if the page is loaded and the ‘Welcome to login page’ message is displayed. The test has failed here as the page was not loaded due to a browser compatibility issue, it would have loaded if the test had passed. 

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Software Testing Client Project Case Study

Apr 21 • Case Studies

We are often asked what software testing is . The video below shares a solid definition of the term.

But we thought a software testing project case study might be helpful to better understand what software testers do on a typical day. This includes testing software, writing requirement documents for our clients, and creating user guides to ensure compliance for our clients to use for quality assurance and auditing purposes.

Iterators LLC was hired to complete accessibility testing for a few projects for the Library of Congress (LOC). Accessibility testing is required on all government websites, with Section 508 and WCAG 2.2 requirements used. To become a Trusted Tester an employee must complete the DHS Trusted Tester online training course requirements and pass the DHS Section 508 Trusted Tester Certification Exam of Homeland Security in Accessibility, and we are in a unique position to help on this project. We cross-train all our employees so that we can work on several projects at one time or several different aspects of a project to complete the work and reduce the cost to our clients.

Our first project assigned by LOC was testing their new braille feature on BARD Mobile for Android. We were tasked with testing the braille feature with several refreshable braille displays.

During our testing, we used the Orbit Reader 20 , and two different braille displays from Freedom Focus 14 and Freedom Focus 40 . There are plans to use other refreshable displays such as Humanware, but this testing has not occurred yet. We needed to test refreshable braille displays and their use in tandem with Google BrailleBack and Google TalkBack .

This work was to ensure that all hardware worked as expected with the apps we were testing. For this testing, we had to complete functional testing, smoke testing, exploratory testing and had a user panel to ensure we caught all issues that a visually impaired individual might experience while using the app.

Initially, our client was unsure if we would find any bugs and hesitant to have us enter bugs into Bugzilla as they stated the software was “complicated”. Bugzilla is a web-based general-purpose bug tracking system and not unlike other bug tracking systems we use every day such as Jira, TestRails, PractiTest, and Click-Up.

Testing was completed over several agile sprints with many significant software testing bugs found. Our testing had us test against the National Library Service requirements document. Next, we had to create an up-to-date user manual. While the manual had been updated several times, the testing had not been.

For example, when downloading a book or magazine from the Now Reading section of the mobile app, the download would end up at the bottom of the page. For years, the user guide had listed the download being at the top of the page once the document was downloaded.

Our testing team, on several occasions, said this was an error in the documentation and that the download ends up at the bottom of the page. This was corrected in the user document and sent to the development team to fix per the requirement document.

Over the next several months, we reported 30 high-priority bugs with about half fixed at this point. We have encouraged our client to test in an agile fashion because once the development team is finished, it’s harder to get these bugs fixed.

Our bugs were reported and based on the requirement document used to create the software. Lastly, the user guide had to be rewritten to reflect the app's behavior and general updates.

Once the app was tested and created, the user guide was sent to Communication Services to ensure the style used per other requirement documentation. This document had to be approved before being disseminated to the public. For example, how does the library determine what the Most Popular Books are, and over what period.

Once the document was returned from COS, this PDF document had to be remediated . The process of remediation is to make a PDF, create the heading for the document, alt text added to meaningful images, and decorative images either ignored or taken out of the digital document altogether.

Once the remediation process is complete and validated, the document becomes ADA-compliant. We then provide an accessible PDF that can be read with the use of a screen reader and create the HTML output so that the document can be added to the Library of Congress website.

You can find the current user guide we completed here: https://www.loc.gov/nls/braille-audio-reading-materials/bard-access/bard-mobile-android/#creatingfolders3.3

Case studies can be a great learning tool in software testing and project management. By looking at project case study examples, you can see how the project was planned and executed, as well as how certain tasks were managed. This can give a better understanding of what software testing involves on a daily basis. With the right software testing case studies example, software testers can hone their skills, improve project performance, and ultimately deliver better software testing results.

Related Resources:

• Crafting an Effective Test Plan: A Step-by-Step Guide
• Top Test Management Tools
• Mobile Application Functional and Performance Testing

About the Author

Jill Willcox has worked on accessibility issues for most of her professional career. Iterators is an inclusive women-owned small business (WOSB) certified by the Small Business Administration and WBENC. We provide software testing services for websites, mobile apps, enterprise software, and PDF remediation services, rendering PDFs ADA compliant.

Jill Willcox

Clutch names iterators llc as a top certified women-owned business for 2022.

Iterators LLC named Top Certified Women0owned Business Again 2022

Test Strategy vs Test Plan: What’s the Difference?

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Selenium IDE Fundamentals

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• Everything you need to know about the Listeners in Selenium
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QTP vs Selenium: Know the Differences Between Automation Testing Giants

• Selenium vs RPA: What is the Difference?

Locators and Waits in Selenium

All you need to know about webelement in selenium.

• How To Find Elements in Selenium WebDriver?
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How to handle Alerts and Pop-ups in Selenium

How to select a value from a drop-down in selenium webdriver.

• How To Take A Screenshot In Selenium WebDriver
• All You Need to Know About TestNG Annotations in Selenium
• Know How To Use DataProvider in TestNG – TestNG Parameterization
• Know How to Perform Database Testing Using Selenium – A Step By Step Guide
• How to Handle Multiple Windows in Selenium?

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Selenium Grid

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Top 50+ selenium interview questions and answers you must prepare in 2024, software testing, how to write a good test case in software testing.

The prime objective of any software project is to get a high-quality output while reducing the cost and the time required for completing the project. To achieve that, companies test their software before they release it to the market. Documentation plays a critical role in achieving effective software testing . In this article let’s explore more about a documentation type called test case in software testing.

Listed below are the topics covered in this article:

• Is Documentation Needed in Software Testing?

What is a Test Case in Software Testing?

Benefits of writing test cases, test case format, test case design techniques, demo: how to write a test case in software testing, test cases best practices.

You can go through this lecture on test case in software testing where our Software Testing Training  expert is discussing each & every nitty gritties of the technology.

How To Write A Test Case? | Test Case In Software Testing | Edureka

This video will give you an in-depth knowledge on how to write a Test Case in Software Testing.

Is Documentation Needed in Software Testing? Yes! It is. Documentation plays a critical role in Test Automation . Here’s an example to convince you, people.

A company, let’s call it ‘ABC’, delivered a project (with an unknown issue) to one of its clients. And they found the issue at the client-side, which created a very bad situation for the company. Like always all blame was on Quality Analysts(QAs).

The issue was something regarding the compatibility of one website. The issue was presented to higher authorities, they showed the client a written proof of not receiving any such requirement asking to check compatibility of the website. So, the issue was resolved peacefully. In a way, the documented requirements saved the company from getting sued. That’s how documentation came in very handy.

There are different levels of documentation, like:

• Test Script : A line-by-line description of all the actions and data needed to perform a test.
• Test Case: Describes a specific idea that is to be tested, without detailing the exact steps to be taken or data to be used.
• Test Scenario: It is a simple description of an objective a user might face when testing.

Moving further with this article on ‘Test Case in Software Testing’ let’s learn more about test cases in particular.

A test case is a document which has a set of conditions or actions that are performed on the software application in order to verify the expected functionality of the feature.

After test scripts, test cases are the second most detailed way of documenting testing work. They describe a specific idea that is to be tested, without detailing the exact steps to be taken or data to be used. For example, in a test case, you document something like ‘ Test if coupons can be applied on actual price ‘. This doesn’t mention how to apply the coupons or whether there are multiple ways to apply. It also doesn’t mention if the tester uses a link to apply a discount, or enter a code, or have a customer service apply it. They give flexibility to the tester to decide how they want to execute the test.

Apart from this, what is the use of test cases?

The key purpose of a test case is to ensure if different features within an application are working as expected. It helps tester, validate if the software is free of defects and if it is working as per the expectations of the end users. Other benefits of test cases include:

• Test cases ensure good test coverage
• Help improve the quality of software,
• Decreases the maintenance and software support costs
• Help verify that the software meets the end user requirements
• Allows the tester to think thoroughly and approach the tests from as many angles as possible
• Test cases are reusable for the future – anyone can reference them and execute the test.

So, these are a few reasons why test cases are extremely useful in software testing. Test cases are powerful artifacts that work as a good source of truth for how a system and a particular feature of software works. However, before we deep dive into the lessons for writing top-notch test cases, let us have a basic idea on the terminologies associated with them.

The primary ingredients of a test case are an ID, description, bunch of inputs, few actionable steps, as well as expected and actual results. Let’s learn what each of them is:

• Test Case Name: A test case should have a name or title that is self-explanatory.
• Test Case Description: The description should tell the tester what they’re going to test in brief.
• Pre-Conditions: Any assumptions that apply to the test and any preconditions that must be met prior to the test being executed should be listed here.
• Test Case Steps: The test steps should include the necessary data and information on how to execute the test. The steps should be clear and brief, without leaving out essential facts.
• Test Data: It’s important to select a data set that gives sufficient coverage. Select a data set that specifies not only the positive scenarios but negative ones as well.
• Expected Result: The expected results tell the tester what they should experience as a result of the test steps.
• Actual Result: They specifies how the application actually behaved while test cases were being executed.
• Comments: Any other useful information such as screenshots that tester want’s to specify can be included here.

This is the typical format that testers follow when they write a test case. Along with these parameters, testers can include additional parameters like test case priority, type of test case, bug id, etc.

Now that we are familiar with the format, let’s go one step ahead in the ‘Test Case in Software Testing’ article and learn about different techniques that you can use to write test cases.

An efficient test case design technique is necessary to improve the quality of the software testing process. It helps to improve the overall quality and effectiveness of the released software. The test case design techniques are broadly classified into three major categories:

Specification-Based (Black Box Techniques): This type of techniques can be used to design test cases in a systematic format. These use external features of the software such as technical specifications, design, client’s requirements, and more, to derive test cases. With this type of test case design techniques, testers can develop test cases that save testing time and allow full test coverage.

Structure-Based (White Box Techniques): These techniques design test cases based on the internal structure of the software program and code. Developers go into minute details of the developed code and test them one by one.

Experienced-Based Techniques : These techniques are highly dependent on tester’s experience to understand the most important areas of the software. They are based on the skills, knowledge, and expertise of the people involved.

This article ‘Test Case in Software Testing’ further lists the different techniques which come under the design categories specified above.

Successful application of any of these test case design techniques will render test cases that ensure the success of software testing.  The remainder of this ‘Test Case in Software Testing’ article let’s check out how to write a good test case.

Here are the simple steps to get you started.

Preparing to write a test case

• Check if a test case already exists. If yes, consider updating test case, rather than writing a new one.
• Make sure the test case has certain characteristics like accuracy, tracing, repetition, re-usability, and independence.
• Consider all the different scenarios possible before writing.
• Give yourself enough time to write test cases.

Writing a test case

• Select a tool for writing a test case.
• Write a test case in the format discussed earlier.
• Write basic test statements.
• Review written test cases thoroughly.

Here’s a sample test case for checking login functionality, though I have added just two possibilities.

Knowing how to write good test cases is extremely important. It doesn’t take too much of your effort and time to write effective test scripts as long as you follow certain guidelines.

Test cases are very important for any project as they are the first step in any testing cycle. If anything goes wrong at this step, it might have undesirable impacts as you move forward in the software testing life-cycle. Few guidelines that you need to follow while writing test cases are:

• Prioritize which test cases to write based on the project timelines and the risk factors of your application.
• Remember the 80/20 rule. To achieve the best coverage, 20% of your tests should cover 80% of your application.
• Don’t try to test cases in one attempt instead improvise them as you progress.
• List down your test cases and classify them based on business scenarios and functionality.
• Make sure test cases are modular and test case steps are as granular as possible.
• Write test cases in such a way that others can understand them easily & modify if required.
• Always keep end-users’ requirements in the back of your mind because ultimately the software designed is for the customer
• Actively use a test management tool to manage stable release cycle.
• Monitor your test cases regularly. Write unique test cases and remove irrelevant & duplicate test cases.

Well, I can keep going on but there are way too many guidelines than I can actually list here. The ones listed above should be good enough for you to get started in writing test cases. Hope the things that you have learned here today will help you as you head out on your software testing journey.

If you found this “Test Case in Software Testing ” article relevant,  check out the  live-online  Selenium Certification Training   by Edureka, a trusted online learning company with a network of more than 250,000 satisfied learners spread across the globe. 

Got a question for us? Please mention it in the comments section of this ‘ Test Case in Software Testing ’ article and we will get back to you.

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How to Write Test Cases with Examples

Steps to Create Test Cases in Manual Testing

Let’s create a Test Case for the scenario: Check Login Functionality

Step 1) A simple test case to explain the scenario would be

Step 2) Test the Data. In order to execute the test case, you would need Test Data . Adding it below

Identifying test data can be time-consuming and may sometimes require creating test data afresh. The reason it needs to be documented.

On Zoho Projects Website

On Jira Software Website

On Monday’s Website

Step 3) Perform actions. In order to execute a test case, a tester needs to perform a specific set of actions on the AUT. This is documented as below:

Many times the Test Steps are not simple as above, hence they need documentation. Also, the author of the test case may leave the organization or go on a vacation or is sick and off duty or is very busy with other critical tasks. A recently hire may be asked to execute the test case. Documented steps will help him and also facilitate reviews by other stakeholders.

During test execution time, the tester will check expected results against actual results and assign a pass or fail status

Step 5) That apart your test case -may have a field like, Pre – Condition which specifies things that must be in place before the test can run. For our test case, a pre-condition would be to have a browser installed to have access to the site under test. A test case may also include Post – Conditions which specifies anything that applies after the test case completes. For our test case, a postcondition would be time & date of login is stored in the database

How to Write Test Case Video

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Best Practice for writing good Test Case.

1. Test Cases need to be simple and transparent:

Create test cases that are as simple as possible. They must be clear and concise as the author of the test case may not execute them.

Use assertive language like go to the home page, enter data, click on this and so on. This makes the understanding the test steps easy and tests execution faster.

2. Create Test Case with End User in Mind

The ultimate goal of any software project is to create test cases that meet customer requirements and is easy to use and operate. A tester must create test cases keeping in mind the end user perspective

3. Avoid test case repetition.

Do not repeat test cases. If a test case is needed for executing some other test case, call the test case by its test case id in the pre-condition column

4. Do not Assume

Do not assume functionality and features of your software application while preparing test case. Stick to the Specification Documents.

5. Ensure 100% Coverage

Make sure you write test cases to check all software requirements mentioned in the specification document. Use Traceability Matrix to ensure no functions/conditions is left untested.

6. Test Cases must be identifiable.

Name the test case id such that they are identified easily while tracking defects or identifying a software requirement at a later stage.

7. Implement Testing Techniques

It’s not possible to check every possible condition in your software application. Software Testing techniques help you select a few test cases with the maximum possibility of finding a defect.

• Boundary Value Analysis ( BVA ): As the name suggests it’s the technique that defines the testing of boundaries for a specified range of values.
• Equivalence Partition (EP): This technique partitions the range into equal parts/groups that tend to have the same behavior.
• State Transition Technique : This method is used when software behavior changes from one state to another following particular action.
• Error Guessing Technique: This is guessing/anticipating the error that may arise while doing manual testing. This is not a formal method and takes advantages of a tester’s experience with the application

8. Self-cleaning

The test case you create must return the Test Environment to the pre-test state and should not render the test environment unusable. This is especially true for configuration testing.

9. Repeatable and self-standing

The test case should generate the same results every time no matter who tests it

10. Peer Review.

After creating test cases, get them reviewed by your colleagues. Your peers can uncover defects in your test case design, which you may easily miss.

While drafting a test case to include the following information

• The description of what requirement is being tested
• The explanation of how the system will be tested
• The test setup like a version of an application under test, software, data files, operating system, hardware, security access, physical or logical date, time of day, prerequisites such as other tests and any other setup information pertinent to the requirements being tested
• Inputs and outputs or actions and expected results
• Any proofs or attachments
• Use active case language
• Test Case should not be more than 15 steps
• An automated test script is commented with inputs, purpose and expected results
• The setup offers an alternative to pre-requisite tests
• With other tests, it should be an incorrect business scenario order

Test Case Management Tools

Test management tools are the automation tools that help to manage and maintain the Test Cases. Main Features of a test case management tool are

• For documenting Test Cases: With tools, you can expedite Test Case creation with use of templates
• Execute the Test Case and Record the results: Test Case can be executed through the tools and results obtained can be easily recorded.
• Automate the Defect Tracking: Failed tests are automatically linked to the bug tracker, which in turn can be assigned to the developers and can be tracked by email notifications.
• Traceability: Requirements, Test cases, Execution of Test cases are all interlinked through the tools, and each case can be traced to each other to check test coverage.
• Protecting Test Cases: Test cases should be reusable and should be protected from being lost or corrupted due to poor version control. Test Case Management Tools offer features like
• Naming and numbering conventions
• Read-only storage
• Controlled access
• Off-site backup

Popular Test Management tools are: Quality Center and JIRA

The format of Standard Test Cases

Below is a format of a standard login Test cases example.

This entire table may be created in Word, Excel or any other Test management tool . That’s all to Test Case Design

Test Case Template

• Please note that the template used will vary from project to project. Read this tutorial to Learn Test Case Template with Explanation of Important Fields

Download the above Test Case Template Excel (.xls)

Software Testing is a process of verifying a computer system/program to decide whether it meets the specified requirements and produces the desired results. As a result, you identify bugs in software product/project.

Software Testing is indispensable to provide a quality product without any bug or issue.

For a Test Scenario : Check Login Functionality there many possible test cases are:

• Test Case 1: Check results on entering valid User Id & Password
• Test Case 2: Check results on entering Invalid User ID & Password
• Test Case 3: Check response when a User ID is Empty & Login Button is pressed, and many more
• What is Software Testing?
• 7 Principles of Software Testing with Examples
• V-Model in Software Testing
• STLC (Software Testing Life Cycle)
• Manual Testing Tutorial
• Automation Testing
• What is Unit Testing?
• What is Integration Testing? (Example)