Imagine constructing a high-rise building without any architectural plan, or performing a security inspection without a checklist. In software development, a proper test case template is equally important to ensure quality. Software bugs can be minimized by following well-defined testing processes, and a test case template acts as a safeguard against costly defects.
A test case template is not just a document but a foundation for:
- Software releases that meet deadlines
- Clarity of communication between the testing and development teams
- Guide to onboard new team members
- Confidence in your application’s reliability
Be it a fresher or an experienced QA professional, mastering the art of writing efficient test case templates helps ensure software quality with a precise and structured method. In this article, we will do a thorough analysis of writing test case templates, along with test case examples for practical implementation.
Definition and Purpose of Test Case Template
A test case template is a standard document that serves as a blueprint for writing test cases. It ensures completeness and consistency in the testing process across the organization. It is a structured document that helps in documenting the test scenarios, test steps, and expected results in testing a functionality.
Importance of Test Case Template in QA
Test cases template offers a lot of advantages in the testing process like-
- Standardization — It serves as a standard template to be followed by all the testers, hence reducing confusion and miscommunication.
- Efficiency — The prebuilt template helps save time in test case creation and maintenance.
- Traceability — The template also helps in maintaining clear links between the requirement and the test cases.
- Documentation — The templates serve as historical records for future reference and audit trails.
- Training — New team members can use these documents to learn and understand the testing processes being followed.
Test Case Template Components
Some key components along with their examples and best practices for writing them are highlighted below-
Test Case ID
Test case ID is created by combining the project identifier with a unique number. For example, the test case identifier for the Login module can be Login_TC_001. Similarly, for the Payment module, it can be PAY_TC_001. You may consider some important points while creating a Test Case ID-
- IDs should be easily searchable
- Include Module/Feature name
- Use a consistent naming convention
Test Case Description
It gives an overview of the test we would be performing. The description states the feature to be tested and the specific test scenario. Additionally, the expected behavior for the test is also added. For example, test case description for successful login can be –
Verify that users can successfully log in using valid email and password.
Prerequisites
Prerequisites constitute the system requirements and the test environment. The software versions, database configurations network settings, browser specifications, and mobile device requirements(if any) are specified within the prerequisites for the test case. Additionally, the test data setup required for execution is included. For example, the execution of a successful login test case requires a set of valid usernames and passwords along with validation on different browsers and devices like Google Chrome, Firefox, Android, iOS, etc
Test Steps
Test steps are sequential actionable instructions. Each test step has one action. For example, for the Successful Login test case, the test steps can be
- Navigate to the application URL.
- Enter the username.
- Enter the password.
- Click on the Login button.
- Validate that the user account dashboard is displayed.
Expected Results
The expected results capture the expected outcome at each step. It also describes the success criteria and the system’s responses at a specific step. For example, the expected outcome for the above test steps can be
- The application login page is loaded.
- The system accepts the username.
- The system accepts the password.
- The system should allow the login button to be clicked.
- The user account dashboard should be displayed.
Status
It refers to the status of the test, i.e. Pass or Fail. It can be corresponding to each step.
Test Case Template — Example
A general test case template includes the components listed in the above section along with basic details like the Test Designed By, Test Reviewed By, Test Executed By, Test Execution Date and some other generic fields. Below is a test case template for login functionality:
Best Practices to Write Effective Test Case Template
- The test steps should be written clearly with specifications of data values, inputs and validation points.
- The documentation standards must be followed by using consistent terminology, ans use of version control.
- The test cases must be organized such that the related test cases are grouped. The dependencies must maintained. Additionally, the test cases must be prioritized based on risk.
Key Takeaways
Thorough understanding of testing principles is the key to creating effective test case templates. Testing teams can excel by creating comprehensive testing documentation, maintaining consistency across projects, ensuring quality standards and enabling effective communication. Incorporating the practice of including test case templates in the testing process will ensure an efficient and successful release.
Source: This blog was originally published at testgrid.io
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