Software Testing Tutorial #31 - Test Scenario Vs Test Case

Summary

This tutorial explains the key differences between test scenarios and test cases in software testing. A test scenario is a high-level, one-liner description of what needs to be tested, while a test case provides detailed steps on how to perform the test. The video emphasizes how test cases are derived from test scenarios, which in turn are based on requirements such as user stories or software specifications. It illustrates the process using examples from e-commerce websites, explaining how positive and negative scenarios are created and used to build corresponding test cases.

Takeaways

• 📝 Test scenarios are high-level, one-line descriptions of what will be tested in the application.
• 🖥️ Test cases are detailed descriptions that expand on scenarios by specifying the steps required to execute a test.
• 🔄 Test scenarios and test cases are interrelated, with test cases derived from scenarios.
• 🔍 Test scenarios are derived from requirement documents, such as Software Requirement Specifications (SRS) and user stories.
• 📋 Test cases provide step-by-step instructions on how to test specific functionalities in a system.
• 💡 Test scenarios cover both positive and negative cases to ensure comprehensive testing of the application.
• 🔑 The flow in testing typically starts from requirements, leading to scenarios, and then to test cases.
• 🛠️ Scenarios can have either one test case or multiple test cases, depending on the complexity of the functionality.
• 🛒 For end-to-end scenarios like e-commerce, multiple test cases may be combined to cover all aspects, such as registration, login, and checkout.
• 🎯 Proper understanding of test scenarios and test cases helps in practical software testing, ensuring that no steps are missed during the testing process.

Q & A

What is the main difference between a test scenario and a test case?

A test scenario is a high-level, one-liner description of what you are going to test in a particular functionality, while a test case is a more detailed description that includes the steps of how to test a particular scenario.

Why is it important to understand the difference between test scenarios and test cases?

Understanding the difference is crucial because both are used extensively in software testing projects. Knowing the difference helps in applying them correctly and ensures that testing is thorough and covers all necessary aspects of a functionality.

Can you provide an example of a test scenario for a login functionality?

An example of a test scenario for a login functionality could be 'Test login with valid user and password' or 'Test login with invalid user and password'.

How are test scenarios derived in a software testing project?

Test scenarios are mostly derived from requirement documents such as software requirement specifications and user stories. They provide a high-level overview of what needs to be tested.

What is the relationship between requirements, scenarios, and test cases?

Requirements are the starting point. From the requirements, test scenarios are created, which are high-level descriptions of what to test. Test cases are then derived from these scenarios, providing detailed steps on how to test each scenario.

Can a single test scenario correspond to multiple test cases?

Yes, a single test scenario can correspond to multiple test cases. For example, an end-to-end scenario like 'successful purchase' might involve several functionalities like registration, login, adding items to cart, checkout, payment, and confirmation, each of which could have its own test case.

How do you ensure that all scenarios are covered in a test case?

You ensure all scenarios are covered by writing detailed test cases for each scenario, including positive and negative scenarios. This involves elaborating on each scenario with specific steps to be followed during testing.

What is the purpose of writing test scenarios before writing test cases?

Writing test scenarios before test cases helps in applying a tester's mindset to think through all possible combinations and scenarios that can be tested for a particular feature, ensuring comprehensive testing.

Can you give an example of a negative test scenario for registration functionality?

An example of a negative test scenario for registration functionality could be 'Verify registration is not successful with an invalid email'.

How do test scenarios help in practical software testing?

Test scenarios help in practical software testing by providing a clear, high-level overview of what needs to be tested, which then guides the creation of detailed test cases. This structured approach ensures that testing is systematic and covers all necessary aspects of the application.

What is the significance of end-to-end scenarios in software testing?

End-to-end scenarios are significant in software testing because they test the complete workflow of a functionality or a combination of functionalities. They ensure that the application works as expected from start to finish, covering all steps in a process like a user journey.