Here's a breakdown:
* Specific: A test case targets a specific feature, function, or requirement. It doesn't try to test the entire system at once.
* Conditions or Inputs: These are the pre-defined values, scenarios, or actions that are fed into the system during the test.
* Verify: The purpose is to check if the system behaves as expected under those conditions. This can include checking for correct outputs, error handling, or other desired outcomes.
Key elements of a test case:
* Test Case ID: A unique identifier for the test case.
* Test Case Name: A descriptive name that indicates the purpose of the test.
* Test Steps: A sequence of actions that are performed to execute the test.
* Expected Result: The anticipated outcome of the test.
* Actual Result: The actual outcome observed after executing the test.
* Pass/Fail: Indicates whether the test passed or failed based on the comparison of expected and actual results.
Example:
Test Case ID: TC_001
Test Case Name: Verify login functionality with valid credentials
Test Steps:
1. Open the login page.
2. Enter a valid username.
3. Enter a valid password.
4. Click the login button.
Expected Result: User successfully logs in and is redirected to the homepage.
Actual Result: (After execution, the result will be recorded here).
Pass/Fail: (Based on the comparison of expected and actual results).
Why are test cases important?
* Systematically test functionality: Test cases provide a structured way to test individual features and ensure they meet the requirements.
* Reproducibility: They allow you to consistently repeat tests and ensure that any bugs or issues are reproducible.
* Documentation: They serve as documentation of the testing process, helping to understand what was tested and how.
* Regression testing: Test cases help to ensure that new changes to the system don't break existing functionality.
* Quality assurance: By comprehensively testing a system with well-defined test cases, you can ensure higher quality software.