Test Script

A Test Script is a set of instructions or commands that define the steps to be executed in order to perform a specific test. It is used to automate the testing process, ensuring that each step of the test is consistently executed with the same inputs and conditions, and that the expected outcomes are verified.

Key components of a test script include:

• Test Steps: A sequence of actions or commands that are executed to perform the test, including inputs, interactions, and any setup or configuration required before the test runs.
• Expected Results: The anticipated outcome of each test step or the entire test case, which is compared to the actual results to determine if the test passes or fails.
• Assertions: Conditions included in the test script that verify whether the actual results match the expected results. These help automatically detect discrepancies or defects.
• Test Data: The data used in the test script, including both valid and invalid inputs, that simulate real-world usage scenarios to check how the system behaves.
• Pre-Conditions: Any necessary setup or system states that must be in place before the test can be executed, such as user login or environment configuration.
• Post-Conditions: The expected state of the system after the test has been executed, ensuring that the system returns to a stable state after the test completes.
• Error Handling: Instructions on how to handle unexpected outcomes or failures during the test execution, such as retrying or logging error messages for debugging.

Test scripts are essential in automated testing because they ensure repeatability, reduce human error, and increase the speed of testing, particularly for regression and load testing. They help maintain consistent testing practices and improve the reliability and efficiency of the overall testing process.