What is Software Testing? | Malayalam | Manual testing | Automation testing

Introduction

This tutorial provides a comprehensive overview of software testing, covering its methods, principles, and benefits. Whether you are new to software testing or looking to enhance your knowledge, this guide will break down manual and automation testing into clear, actionable steps.

Step 1: Understand the Basics of Software Testing

• Definition: Software testing is the process of evaluating a software application to detect differences between given input and expected output.
• Purpose: It ensures that the software meets the required standards and functions correctly before it is released to users.
• Key Concepts:
  • Quality Assurance: Preventing defects in the development process.
  • Quality Control: Identifying defects in the final product.

Step 2: Explore Testing Methods

• Manual Testing:

  • Involves human testers performing test cases without automation tools.
  • Useful for exploratory, usability, and ad-hoc testing.
  • Practical Tips:
    • Document your test cases for consistency.
    • Engage in exploratory testing to discover unexpected issues.

• Automation Testing:

  • Utilizes scripts and tools to automate repetitive tasks in the testing process.
  • Ideal for regression testing, performance testing, and load testing.
  • Common Tools: Selenium, JUnit, TestNG.
  • Practical Tips:
    • Start with automating the most critical test cases.
    • Regularly update your test scripts to accommodate changes in the application.

Step 3: Learn Basic Testing Principles

• Early Testing: Start testing early in the development cycle to identify issues sooner.
• Defect Clustering: Focus on areas of the application where defects are more likely to occur.
• Pesticide Paradox: Running the same set of tests will not uncover new bugs; regularly update your tests.

Step 4: Recognize the Benefits of Software Testing

• Improved Quality: Increases reliability and improves user satisfaction.
• Cost Efficiency: Identifying and fixing defects early can reduce overall costs.
• Reduced Risk: Minimizes the chances of failures in production, which can lead to financial loss.

Step 5: Familiarize Yourself with Testing Phases

• Test Planning: Define the scope and objectives of testing.
• Test Design: Create test cases and identify test data requirements.
• Test Execution: Perform the actual testing based on the designed test cases.
• Test Closure: Evaluate cycle completion criteria based on test coverage, quality, cost, time, critical business objectives, etc.

Conclusion

Understanding software testing, including its methods and principles, is crucial for ensuring software quality. Start by exploring both manual and automation testing, and apply the basic principles to enhance your testing processes. As you gain experience, consider diving deeper into specific tools and methodologies to further your career in software testing. For ongoing learning, follow channels like Upcode Software Labs for additional resources and training.