Regression Testing is a crucial aspect of software testing that ensures that recent code changes have not adversely affected the existing functionality of the software. This type of testing is essential for maintaining software quality over time, especially in projects with frequent updates or modifications.
Key Concepts of Regression Testing
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Purpose of Regression Testing:
- To verify that new code changes do not disrupt existing functionalities.
- To ensure that previously fixed bugs do not reappear.
- To maintain the overall stability and reliability of the software.
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When to Perform Regression Testing:
- After bug fixes.
- Following enhancements or new feature additions.
- During regular maintenance updates.
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Types of Regression Testing:
- Corrective Regression Testing: Used when there are no changes in the product’s specification. The existing test cases can be reused.
- Progressive Regression Testing: Applied when there are changes in the product specifications and new test cases need to be created.
- Selective Regression Testing: Involves selecting a subset of test cases that are affected by the changes.
- Complete Regression Testing: Conducted when there are significant changes in the code, requiring a full test of the entire system.
Practical Example
Let's consider a simple web application with a login feature. Initially, the application only supports username and password login. Later, a new feature is added to allow login via email.
Initial Test Case for Login Feature
Test Case ID: TC001 Title: Verify login functionality with username and password Preconditions: User is registered with a username and password. Steps: 1. Navigate to the login page. 2. Enter a valid username. 3. Enter a valid password. 4. Click on the 'Login' button. Expected Result: User should be successfully logged in and redirected to the dashboard.
Regression Test Case After Feature Update
Test Case ID: TC002 Title: Verify login functionality with email and password Preconditions: User is registered with an email and password. Steps: 1. Navigate to the login page. 2. Enter a valid email. 3. Enter a valid password. 4. Click on the 'Login' button. Expected Result: User should be successfully logged in and redirected to the dashboard.
Explanation
- TC001 is the original test case for the login feature using a username.
- TC002 is a new test case added to test the new email login feature.
- Regression testing involves running both TC001 and TC002 to ensure that the new email login feature does not break the existing username login functionality.
Exercises
Exercise 1: Identify Regression Test Cases
Given a scenario where a new payment gateway is integrated into an e-commerce application, identify which existing functionalities should be tested for regression.
Solution:
- Test the checkout process with the new payment gateway.
- Verify that existing payment methods (credit card, PayPal) still function correctly.
- Ensure that order confirmation emails are sent correctly after payment.
- Check that the order history reflects the correct payment method and status.
Exercise 2: Create a Regression Test Plan
Create a regression test plan for a mobile application that has recently added a new feature for push notifications.
Solution:
- Scope: Define the scope of the regression testing, including the new push notification feature and existing functionalities.
- Test Cases: List all test cases related to notifications, including:
- Receiving notifications while the app is open.
- Receiving notifications when the app is closed.
- Notification settings and preferences.
- Schedule: Determine the timeline for executing the regression tests.
- Resources: Assign testers and allocate necessary resources.
- Risk Analysis: Identify potential risks, such as notification delivery failures or app crashes.
Common Mistakes and Tips
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Mistake: Overlooking minor changes that could impact the system.
- Tip: Always perform a thorough impact analysis to identify all affected areas.
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Mistake: Not updating test cases after changes in requirements.
- Tip: Regularly review and update test cases to align with current requirements.
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Mistake: Running all test cases without prioritization.
- Tip: Prioritize test cases based on the impact and criticality of the changes.
Conclusion
Regression Testing is an essential practice in software development that helps ensure the stability and reliability of applications after changes. By understanding when and how to perform regression testing, testers can effectively maintain software quality and prevent the reintroduction of defects. In the next section, we will explore Smoke and Sanity Testing, which are preliminary testing types that help identify major issues early in the testing process.
Manual Testing and Types of Tests
Module 1: Introduction to Manual Testing
- What is Manual Testing?
- Importance of Manual Testing
- Manual Testing vs. Automated Testing
- Roles and Responsibilities of a Manual Tester
Module 2: Basic Concepts in Manual Testing
- Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC)
- Software Testing Life Cycle (STLC)
- Test Plan and Test Case
- Defect Life Cycle
Module 3: Types of Manual Testing
Module 4: Advanced Manual Testing Techniques
Module 5: Specialized Testing Types
- Security Testing
- Performance Testing
- Localization and Internationalization Testing
- User Acceptance Testing (UAT)