What is Test Case? How to Write Test Cases in Software Testing?

Best Tips to Write a Good Test Case in Software Testing

The test case is the first and foremost action in any software test cycle and is very significant for any software testing project. In case anything goes imperfect at this phase, the impact gets multiplied in the complete software test procedure. This can be easily evaded if the QA engineers and testers use proper tips and procedures while crafting the test case template. But first, let us take a quick overview of what exactly is the Test Case.

What are Test Cases in Software Testing?

It is a significant document that has a series of steps and conditions that are executed on the software app to confirm the expected performance and functionality of the feature. Test Case mainly determines if a software app or one of its features is functioning as formerly planned and required. After test scripts, the test case is the most significant and the second most descriptive means of documenting test work.

Test cases help direct the enthusiastic software tester through a series of steps to corroborate whether an app is free of bugs, and functions as needed by the end-user. Knowing how to write effective test cases necessitates attention to detail, basic writing skills, and a great understanding of the AUT (application under test).

Normally, test cases for a specified module or component of an app are gathered into a test suite. More frequently than not, a testing session will count several test cases as there will generally be more than one particular scenario to be tested. The majority of the companies are utilizing test case management tools like JIRA, HP QC (HP Quality Center), etc., and some organizations are still using Excel sheets for writing test cases.

Who Writes Test Cases?

It depends from organization to organization. Assuming that a dedicated group or team contains testers and developers then it might be somewhat like a collaborative effort.

• Testers write Acceptance Tests 
• Developers write Unit Tests
• Testers & Developers write Integration Tests

The properly well-written test case should permit any quality assurance tester to comprehend and carry out the test. While writing test cases in software testing, it is significant for them to put in the customer’s shoes and to take account of all the necessary details. Putting forth the additional effort for writing good test cases upfront will save their extra effort and time further down the road.

Advantages of Writing Effective Test Cases in Software Testing

The key objective of writing a good test case is to make sure that distinct features within an app are functioning as expected. Test cases assist the tester, validate if the software app is free of glitches and if it is functioning as per the expectations of the clients. Other advantages of test cases count:

• Test cases make sure effective test coverage
• Lessen the software support and maintenance costs
• Help improve the software quality 
• Help confirm that the software meets the end-user necessities
• Test cases can be reusable for future deeds– anybody could reference them and carry out the test. 
• Allows the software tester to think carefully and approach the testing from as distinct angles as possible

How to Write Test Cases in an Effective Way?

Writing test cases – particularly high volumes of them without delay and promptly can be a time-taking task. Outlined some of the crucial tips on how to write test cases:

• Deep Knowledge of the Domain 

Detailed domain knowledge in IT means comprehensive knowledge of operational dynamics and business, the opportunities in that specific project, and the risks included. It is necessary to follow the best practices in the specific vertical.

• Stay In Your Lane

It is always best to get a thorough understanding and knowledge of the Software Requirement Specification (SRS) document. Testers often become more intuitive somewhat rather than following a common or logical approach, and often this intuition results in assumptions. When they frame down test cases, an assumption of functionalities and features can sometimes divert them from actual necessities that were originally needed by the user or customer. This will not just impact the product undergoing tests but also the customer-company relationships.

• Simple to understand and execute language

In order to make the test cases easily understandable and execute quicker, we need to use easy-to-understand language such as “enter username”, “click on login button”, “Go to login page”, “enter password”, and so on.

• Be Aware Of The Product Updates

It is crucial to concentrate on SRS, however, not if it is based on an out-of-date version of the software. No one would want to test an old or deprecated trait! We exist in a world conquered by agile methodologies wherein product development compels through the quick lane. Occasionally, to deal with shorter time windows, or after arranging an immediate bug fix, the software requirements specification (SRS) document is left untouched. It is a best practice to upgrade the software requirements specification (SRS) concerning any minor or major change.

• Include the Anticipated Outcome

The anticipated result notifies the tester of what they should encounter as a consequence of or a result of the test steps. This is where the software tester decides if the test case is a “fail” or “pass”

• 100% Test Coverage

Test coverage is a significant facet of enduring the robustness of any software. It is crucial to aspire for 100% test coverage before anyone deep dives into the test cases. Take a serious note and plan your test cases to cover every single functionality and component specified in the SRS document.

Conclusion

Writing test cases counts a detailed knowledge of the software that is being tested and a little practice. Well-written test cases could easily make your test process faster, and smoother, and save your effort and time in the long run.

Read Also: Test Case Vs Test Scenario