Introduction
Software testing is a critical part of the development process, but it can be time-consuming and expensive. One way to save time and money is to perform sanity checks. Sanity checks are a quick and effective way to verify that the basic functionality of a software build is working correctly.
In this article, we will discuss what sanity testing is, why it is important, and how to perform it. We will also provide some tips for writing effective sanity test cases.
Sanity testing is a type of software testing that is performed to quickly evaluate whether the basic functionality of a software build is working correctly. It is typically performed after a new build has been created or after changes have been made to an existing build.
Sanity testing is not intended to be a comprehensive test of the software. Instead, it is a quick and shallow test that focuses on the most critical functionality. The goal of sanity testing is to identify any major bugs that could prevent the software from being deployed.
Why is Sanity Testing Important?
Sanity testing is important because it can help to prevent major bugs from reaching production. By identifying and fixing these bugs early, sanity testing can save time and money in the long run.
Sanity testing can also help to improve the quality of the software. By ensuring that the basic functionality is working correctly, sanity testing can help to prevent users from experiencing frustration and disappointment.
Types of Sanity Testing
There are three main types of sanity testing:
Functional sanity testing focuses on verifying the basic functionality of the software. This includes testing the main features and functionality of the software, such as logging in, creating a new account, and making a purchase.
Regression sanity testing is performed after changes have been made to the software to ensure that the changes have not introduced any new bugs. This type of testing is important because even small changes can sometimes have unintended consequences.
Non-regression sanity testing is performed to ensure that the software is still working correctly after it has been in use for a period of time. This type of testing is important because software can sometimes become unstable or buggy over time.
Steps involved in Sanity Testing
The steps involved in sanity testing can vary depending on the software being tested. However, some common steps include:
Identifying the critical functionality of the software.
Creating test cases that verify the critical functionality.
Executing the test cases and recording the results.
Analyzing the results and identifying any bugs.
Tools for Sanity Testing
Sanity testing can be performed manually or using automated tools. Manual sanity testing is typically used for small or simple projects, while automated sanity testing is used for larger or more complex projects.
There are many different automated sanity testing tools available, such as Test Complete, Selenium, and Katalon Studio. These tools can help to automate the testing process and make it more efficient. Tips for Writing Effective Sanity Test Cases
When writing sanity test cases, it is important to keep the following tips in mind:
Focus on the critical functionality of the software.
Keep the test cases short and simple.
Use clear and concise language.
Avoid using negative statements.
Test for both positive and negative scenarios.
Ensure that the test cases are repeatable.
Conclusion
Sanity testing is a quick and effective way to verify that the basic functionality of a software build is working correctly. It can help to prevent major bugs from reaching production, saving time and money in the long run. Writing effective sanity test cases requires focusing on the critical functionality of the software, keeping them short and simple, using clear language, avoiding negative statements, testing both positive and negative scenarios, and ensuring they are repeatable. By following these tips when performing sanity tests, it will be easier to identify any major bugs before they reach production.