A Test Case is a set of conditions or actions used to verify that a software application functions as expected. It includes inputs, execution steps, and expected outcomes, helping testers assess whether the software meets the defined requirements and behaves correctly in various scenarios.
Key components of a test case include:
- Test Case ID: A unique identifier for the test case to distinguish it from other test cases.
- Test Description: A brief explanation of what the test case is verifying, such as a specific feature or functionality of the software.
- Preconditions: Any conditions that must be met before executing the test, such as the application being in a specific state or a user being logged in.
- Test Steps: A clear sequence of actions or operations that need to be performed to execute the test. These steps guide the tester through the testing process.
- Test Data: The input data used in the test case, such as user credentials, form fields, or database records.
- Expected Result: The anticipated outcome of the test, such as the application returning the correct value, displaying an error message, or updating the database.
- Actual Result: The outcome observed when the test is executed, which is compared to the expected result to determine whether the test passed or failed.
- Postconditions: Any conditions that should be in place after the test is executed, such as data cleanup or system reset.
- Status: The result of the test (e.g., Pass, Fail, Blocked) based on whether the actual result matches the expected result.
Test cases are essential for structured testing, ensuring that all functional and non-functional requirements are validated and that defects are identified before release. They help ensure the software is working as intended and deliver reliable and consistent results.