Right from the start, we are set to announce that there is no single all-purpose test case type. However, there is an easy-to-follow set of practices and solutions that, when implemented properly, will result in a good one. We’ve put together the test case writing best practices – read on to discover them all and level up your performance.
What is a Test Case?
A test case is one of the deliverables in software testing. Test cases are defined as the set of variables and conditions used to verify a particular software feature or functionality. By following the test steps, a QA engineer can compare actual and expected testing results to see if the software behaves as per the initial intention. The above description distills a test case to its core essence, yet, if someone decides to browse test case examples, say, test case examples for web applications or functional test case examples, the results may be somewhat surprising. Quite often, we come across test cases that are different in format and structure and devoid of crucial parts. As a golden rule of writing test cases, the following structure must be respected:
- Test Case ID
- Description
- Preconditions
- Severity
- Environment
- Steps
- Data
- Expected and Actual results
The core goal of any test case is to provide a clear and concise step-by-step guide – a “stairway to bugs” to deliver clear guidance of what went wrong.
How to Write Test Cases?
Learning how to write test cases calls for showing close attention to detail and a good understanding of the application under test (AUT). Let’s illustrate with the example of test cases for a login page. Choosing this particular type to showcase our time-proven practices is dictated by its utmost security value and commonly limited functionality. Hence relative availability to testers of all levels.
Below are steps to follow to deliver top-notch manual test cases examples for a login page:
Test case: Enter a valid username and valid password
2. Enter the correct password for a given user.
3. Tap the Login button.
Password: test
Unsuccessful login.
Test Case Writing Best Practices
Writing test cases takes practice, tested software knowledge, and familiarity with the test cases’ creation best practices. It would be wise to start with studying the examples from trustworthy testing companies and using the templates they provide, such as test script templates, as well as templates for particular methods such as unit testing templates.
Well-structured and professionally written test cases can make the testing process run smoother and save time and effort for all the interested parties. For your dream test case, follow the time-tested recommendations from QAwerk experienced QA specialists:
Dos:
- Easy to read and follow
- Reusable and maintainable
- Break long test cases into smaller ones
- Ensure 100% coverage
Dont’s:
- Vague description
- Include more than one objective
- Disregard peer reviews
- Assume functionality and features
Test Management Tools
For more efficient test case management and maintenance, QA professionals shouldn’t deny themselves tools that evolve testing routine to a whole new level. Apart from the basic features, one would expect from a high-quality test management tool, such as impeccable productivity, real-time reporting and analytics, and flawless tracking capabilities, there is, of course, more to ask for. In order to find a test management software that checks all the boxes for a tester, we’ve outlined the top features that bring more ease and convenience to test case management:
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Customization. Vital feature of a management tool is its flexibility. Thus, it responds better to users’ needs and enhances the overall user experience. For instance, such options as the ability to choose which custom fields to add and items available to denote a test case result (Pass/Fail, Skipped, Re-Test, N/A, etc.) are crucial.
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Integration. With the current abundance of software tools, the integration issue is a new uphill battle. We cannot stress enough the importance of seamless integration possibilities provided by test management tools. The main goal here is to aim for integration with minimal disturbance of the established workflow. Thus, the desired outcomes will be achieved.
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Simplicity. To sustain the competition, management tools must be, in addition to the rich functionality, user-friendly and simple enough for a trouble-free first user experience. Simplicity pillars are a quick setup, intuitive user experience, and easiness in troubleshooting. Sustaining an ongoing flow of top-notch testing processes is challenging; a tool to help with it shouldn’t be.
Consider tooling up with the top test management software, hand-picked by our QA specialists:
Gear up with our tips to deliver the top-flight test cases that will serve their purpose to the fullest.
Yours Free: Test Case Template
