Gherkin is a domain-specific language used in Behavior-Driven Development (BDD) to describe software behaviors in a simple, human-readable format. It serves as a bridge between business stakeholders and developers, allowing both parties to understand the requirements and expected outcomes of a software feature.

1. Feature Files:

   • Gherkin scenarios are written in feature files with a .feature extension.
   • Each feature file contains a single feature and its associated scenarios.

2. Structure of a Feature File:

   • Feature: A high-level description of a software feature.
   • Scenario: A concrete example illustrating a specific behavior of the feature.
   • Steps: The building blocks of a scenario, written in a Given-When-Then format.

3. Gherkin Keywords:

   • Feature: Describes the feature under test.
   • Scenario: Describes a specific situation or example.
   • Given: Describes the initial context of the system.
   • When: Describes an event or action.
   • Then: Describes the expected outcome.
   • And/But: Used to add additional conditions or outcomes.

• Feature: User Login: This line describes the feature being tested, which is the user login functionality.
• Scenario: Successful login with valid credentials: This scenario tests the behavior when a user logs in with valid credentials.
  • Given the user is on the login page: Sets the initial state of the system.
  • When the user enters valid credentials: Describes the action taken by the user.
  • Then the user should be redirected to the dashboard: Describes the expected outcome.
• Scenario: Unsuccessful login with invalid credentials: This scenario tests the behavior when a user logs in with invalid credentials.
  • Then an error message should be displayed: Describes the expected outcome when the credentials are invalid.

Exercise: Write a Gherkin scenario for a feature that allows users to reset their password.

Solution:

• Mistake: Writing too many details in a single step.

  • Tip: Keep each step focused on a single action or outcome.

• Mistake: Using technical jargon in Gherkin steps.

  • Tip: Use simple, business-friendly language to ensure clarity for all stakeholders.

Understanding Gherkin syntax is crucial for writing clear and effective BDD scenarios. By using the Given-When-Then structure, you can create scenarios that are easy to read and understand, bridging the gap between technical and non-technical team members. In the next section, we will explore how to write your first Gherkin scenario in more detail.