Overview
Exploratory testing is an approach in manual testing where testers actively engage with the software without predefined test cases or plans. It emphasizes learning about the software and designing and executing tests simultaneously. This method is crucial for identifying unexpected issues and providing immediate feedback on the application's functionality and usability.
Key Concepts
- Ad-hoc Testing: Conducting tests without formal planning or documentation.
- Error Guessing: Leveraging the tester's experience to anticipate and test potential failure points.
- Charter: A statement of objectives guiding an exploratory testing session.
Common Interview Questions
Basic Level
- What is exploratory testing, and why is it important?
- Can you describe the steps you follow during an exploratory testing session?
Intermediate Level
- How do you decide when to stop exploratory testing?
Advanced Level
- How do you document your findings from exploratory testing?
Detailed Answers
1. What is exploratory testing, and why is it important?
Answer: Exploratory testing is a hands-on approach where testers learn about the software, design tests, and execute those tests concurrently. This method is important because it allows testers to apply their creativity, intuition, and experience directly to the testing process. It is particularly useful for testing complex, critical functionality where predefined test cases may not cover all scenarios or when there is limited documentation available.
Key Points:
- Encourages creativity and adaptability.
- Ideal for complex or poorly documented systems.
- Can uncover issues that scripted testing might miss.
Example:
// Exploratory testing doesn't typically involve code examples as it is a manual testing process.
// However, understanding the mindset can be illustrated through an analogy in programming:
// Imagine you're given a complex program to debug without clear documentation.
// You start by running the program to observe its behavior.
// Next, you hypothesize where the issue might originate based on your observations.
// Finally, you experiment by making changes to the code to see if it affects the outcome.
// This iterative process of observe-hypothesize-experiment in debugging is similar to exploratory testing.
2. Can you describe the steps you follow during an exploratory testing session?
Answer: An exploratory testing session generally involves the following steps: define objectives, execute test scenarios based on those objectives while taking notes, and finally, review and report findings. The tester uses their understanding of the software and its users to guide the testing process, adapting their approach as they learn more about the application's behavior.
Key Points:
- Start with a clear objective or charter.
- Continuously design and execute tests based on observations.
- Document findings and insights throughout the session.
Example:
// Again, exploratory testing is manual, so a direct code example doesn't apply.
// Here's a conceptual illustration of the process:
// Step 1: Define Objective
// "Explore the new user registration feature to identify any usability issues."
// Step 2: Execute Test Scenarios
// - Attempt to register with minimal information.
// - Try registering with an already existing email.
// - Check responses for invalid inputs.
// Step 3: Document Findings
// - Note any errors encountered or unexpected behavior.
// - Capture screenshots of issues for reporting.
3. How do you decide when to stop exploratory testing?
Answer: Deciding when to stop exploratory testing involves balancing the diminishing returns of continued testing against the risk and criticality of the application area being tested. Consider stopping when:
- Test objectives or charter goals are met.
- Testing no longer reveals significant new information.
- Time or resources allocated for testing have been exhausted.
Key Points:
- Achievement of testing objectives.
- Observance of diminishing returns.
- Constraints of time and resources.
Example:
// Not applicable for code example due to the manual nature of exploratory testing.
4. How do you document your findings from exploratory testing?
Answer: Documentation of findings from exploratory testing should be concise yet informative, providing enough detail for developers to understand and address issues. This can include:
- A brief description of the test scenario.
- Steps to reproduce the issue.
- Expected vs. actual results.
- Screenshots or videos as evidence.
- Severity or priority of the issue.
Key Points:
- Clear and concise documentation.
- Steps for reproduction.
- Evidence of the issue.
Example:
// Documentation example structure (not code):
/*
1. Test Scenario: Attempting to register a new user with an existing email.
2. Steps to Reproduce:
a. Navigate to the registration form.
b. Enter all required fields using an email already associated with an account.
c. Submit the form.
3. Expected Result: User receives a message indicating the email is already in use.
4. Actual Result: Registration form submits successfully with no error message.
5. Evidence: Attached screenshot of the completed registration form and the lack of error message.
6. Severity: High, as it affects new user registration integrity.
*/
This approach ensures that exploratory testing findings are actionable and can be effectively communicated to development teams for resolution.
