Software Testing

Given below are some of the most important interview questions in Software Testing asked by the interviewers:



Q.1 White Box Techniques are also called as ?
White-box testing also known as clear box testing, glass box testing, transparent box testing, and structural testing. It is a method of testing software that tests internal structures or workings of an application, as opposed to its functionality.
Q.2 How many baselined documents requiring a many to many relationship are used in a traceability matrix ?
2 baselined documents requiring a many to many relationship are used in a traceability matrix. A traceability matrix is a document, usually in the form of a table, that correlates any two baselined documents that require a many-to-many relationship to determine the completeness of the relationship.
Q.3 Which type of automation testing builds a model of the application under test and then enables the tester to create test cases by simply editing in test parameters and conditions?
Scriptless automation testing builds a model of the application under test and then enables the tester to create test cases by simply editing in test parameters and conditions. Script-less is an approach to build an optimized test automation engine by empowering testing team to quickly build automated test cases by sequencing and ready but reusable code assets to ensure the full test coverage.
Q.4 What are the types of integration testing?
Integration testing (sometimes called integration and testing, abbreviated I&T) is the phase in software testing in which individual software modules are combined and tested as a group. It occurs after unit testing and before validation testing. Big bang and top-down are types of integration testing.
Q.5 Could reviews or inspections be considered part of testing?
Yes, reviews or inspections be considered part of testing because both help detect faults and improve quality
Q.6 What is software testing, and why is it important?
Software testing is the process of evaluating a software application to identify defects and ensure its quality. It's important to deliver reliable and bug-free software.
Q.7 What is the purpose of a test case in software testing?
A test case is a set of conditions or steps designed to determine whether a specific aspect of the software is working correctly or not.
Q.8 What is the difference between functional and non-functional testing?
Functional testing checks if the software meets specified requirements, while non-functional testing evaluates performance, usability, and other qualities.
Q.9 What is regression testing, and why is it essential in software development?
Regression testing verifies that recent code changes have not adversely affected existing functionality. It ensures the software remains stable.
Q.10 Explain the concept of black-box testing.
Black-box testing focuses on testing the software's functionality without considering its internal code or structure. Testers assess inputs and outputs.
Q.11 What is white-box testing, and how does it differ from black-box testing?
White-box testing examines the internal code, logic, and structure of the software. It's different from black-box testing, which doesn't consider code internals.
Q.12 What is a test plan, and why is it created in software testing?
A test plan is a document that outlines the scope, objectives, resources, and schedule for testing activities. It ensures organized and systematic testing.
Q.13 What is smoke testing, and when is it performed?
Smoke testing is a preliminary test to check if the basic functionality of the software works before detailed testing. It's often performed after each build.
Q.14 What is a test environment, and why is it necessary?
A test environment includes hardware, software, and network configurations required for testing. It's necessary to simulate real-world conditions.
Q.15 Explain the concept of boundary value analysis in testing.
Boundary value analysis tests how the software behaves at the edges or limits of input values to ensure robustness and error handling.
Q.16 What is user acceptance testing (UAT), and who typically performs it?
User acceptance testing is the final testing phase where end-users validate the software's functionality. End-users or clients typically perform UAT.
Q.17 What is a defect (bug) in software testing?
A defect or bug is an abnormal behavior, error, or flaw in the software that deviates from the expected or specified functionality.
Q.18 What is test automation, and why is it used?
Test automation involves using tools and scripts to automate testing processes. It's used to save time, increase test coverage, and improve accuracy.
Q.19 What is exploratory testing, and when is it beneficial?
Exploratory testing involves simultaneous learning, test design, and execution. It's beneficial for unscripted testing, quick feedback, and identifying unexpected issues.
Q.20 What is the purpose of a test strategy document?
A test strategy document outlines the overall approach, objectives, scope, resources, and schedules for testing projects. It provides a high-level view of testing.
Q.21 What is static testing, and how does it differ from dynamic testing?
Static testing is a type of testing that reviews documentation, code, and requirements without executing the software. Dynamic testing involves running the software to find defects.
Q.22 What is load testing, and why is it important for web applications?
Load testing simulates heavy user loads to assess a web application's performance and capacity. It's important to ensure the application can handle traffic.
Q.23 What is a test harness in software testing?
A test harness is a set of tools, libraries, and software components used to automate the execution and validation of test cases.
Q.24 Explain the concept of code coverage in testing.
Code coverage measures the percentage of code executed during testing. It helps assess the thoroughness of test cases.
Q.25 What is the difference between verification and validation in testing?
Verification checks whether the software meets specified requirements, while validation assesses whether it satisfies the user's needs and expectations.
Q.26 What is a test management tool, and why is it useful in testing projects?
A test management tool helps plan, organize, execute, and track testing activities. It provides visibility and control over testing processes.
Q.27 What is test data, and why is it crucial in testing?
Test data includes inputs, conditions, and scenarios used in test cases. It's crucial for executing tests and assessing the software's behavior.
Q.28 What are the key principles of software testing?
Key principles include testing early in the software development lifecycle, comprehensive testing, and the principle of "exhaustive testing is impossible."
Q.29 What is software testing, and why is it important?
Software testing is the process of evaluating a software application to identify and fix defects or issues. It's important because it helps ensure the software functions correctly, meets user requirements, and provides a positive user experience.
Q.30 Explain the difference between manual testing and automated testing.
Manual testing involves human testers executing test cases without automation tools, while automated testing uses scripts and software tools to automate test case execution. Automated testing is faster and more efficient for repetitive tasks.
Q.31 What is a test plan, and what does it typically include?
A test plan is a document that outlines the testing approach, objectives, scope, resources, and schedule. It includes test objectives, test strategies, test environments, and the test execution schedule.
Q.32 What are some common testing types, and when would you use them?
Common testing types include functional testing, usability testing, performance testing, security testing, and regression testing. The choice depends on the project's requirements and goals.
Q.33 What is a test case, and how do you write an effective one?
A test case is a detailed description of a specific test scenario, including input data, expected outcomes, and steps to reproduce the test. Effective test cases are clear, concise, and cover various test scenarios.
Q.34 Explain the concept of regression testing.
Regression testing is the process of retesting a software application to ensure that new code changes haven't introduced new defects and that existing functionality still works as expected.
Q.35 What is a bug/defect tracking system, and why is it essential in software testing?
A bug tracking system is a tool used to log, track, and manage defects or issues found during testing. It's crucial for efficient communication between testers, developers, and project stakeholders.
Q.36 How do you prioritize test cases for execution when time is limited?
Test cases can be prioritized based on risk, critical functionality, frequently used features, and regression testing requirements. High-risk and critical test cases should be executed first.
Q.37 Explain the difference between white-box and black-box testing.
White-box testing examines the internal structure and code of a software application, while black-box testing focuses on testing the application's functionality without knowledge of its internal implementation.
Q.38 What is smoke testing, and when is it performed?
Smoke testing is a quick, preliminary test to ensure that the essential features of a software build work correctly. It's performed before more extensive testing to identify major issues early.
Q.39 Describe the testing life cycle and its phases.
The testing life cycle includes phases like test planning, test design, test execution, defect reporting, defect retesting, regression testing, and test closure.
Q.40 What is usability testing, and how is it different from other testing types?
Usability testing evaluates a software application's user-friendliness, intuitiveness, and overall user experience. It's different from other testing types because it focuses on user interactions and feedback.
Q.41 How do you handle a situation where a critical bug is found just before a software release?
In such a situation, I would immediately report the bug to the development team, provide all relevant information, and work collaboratively to determine the severity and potential workarounds. The decision to delay the release or provide a patch would depend on the impact of the bug.
Q.42 What is test automation, and what are its advantages and limitations?
Test automation is the use of software tools to execute test cases and compare actual results with expected outcomes. Advantages include faster execution and repeatability, while limitations include high initial setup costs and the inability to automate all test scenarios.
Q.43 How do you stay updated with the latest trends and technologies in software testing?
I stay updated by regularly reading industry blogs, attending conferences, participating in online forums, and taking relevant courses. Additionally, I collaborate with colleagues to share knowledge and experiences.
Q.44 What is the difference between verification and validation in software testing?
Verification ensures that the software is built correctly, following the specified requirements. Validation checks whether the software meets the user's needs and expectations.
Q.45 Explain the concept of test coverage. Why is it important in software testing?
Test coverage measures the extent to which the code or functionality of a software application is tested. It's important because it helps assess the quality of testing and identifies areas that may require more attention.
Q.46 What is a test strategy, and how does it differ from a test plan?
A test strategy outlines the overall approach to testing, while a test plan provides detailed information on how testing will be conducted. The strategy focuses on goals and high-level guidelines.
Q.47 What is exploratory testing, and when is it most effective?
Exploratory testing is a simultaneous learning and testing approach where testers design and execute test cases on the fly. It's effective for uncovering unexpected issues and for testing areas with limited documentation.
Q.48 How do you handle testing in an Agile development environment?
In an Agile environment, I collaborate closely with developers, prioritize test cases based on user stories, perform continuous testing, and adapt to changing requirements through frequent test cycles.
Q.49 Describe the phases in Software Testing Life Cycle?
We will now discuss the different phases involved in the software testing life cycle are - 1. Requirement Analysis - Helps to understand the requirements and identify the testable requirements. 2. Test Planning - Test strategy is defined 3. Test Case Development - Test cases are defined and developed. 4. Environment Setup - Setup of software and hardware for the testing teams to execute test cases - . 5.Test Execution - Process of executing the code and comparing the expected and actual results 6. Test Cycle Closure - It involves calling out the testing team member meeting and assessing cycle completion criteria based on test coverage, quality, cost, time, critical business objectives, and software.
Q.50 What is the purpose of a test environment, and what are its components?
A test environment is a controlled setup where testing is conducted. Components include hardware, software, databases, network configurations, and test data.
Q.51 Should we perform testing only after the build and execution phases are complete?
We must perform testing after the build and execution phases, as the earlier we catch a defect, the more cost effective it is. For instance fixing a defect in maintenance is ten times more costly than fixing it during execution.
Q.52 Explain the concept of test data and its significance in testing.
Test data is the input and expected output values used in test cases. It's crucial because it allows us to verify that the software functions correctly under various conditions and scenarios.
Q.53 Describe the relationship between environment reality and test phases?
Since test phases start moving ahead therefore environment becomes more important. For instance while unit testing, we require the environment to be partly real, but at the acceptance phase you should have a 100% real environment, or we can say it should be the actual real environment.
Q.54 What is the significance of boundary value analysis and equivalence partitioning in software testing?
Boundary value analysis tests values at the edges or boundaries of input domains, while equivalence partitioning groups input values into equivalence classes. Both techniques help identify potential defects at the boundaries of valid input ranges.
Q.55 How do you conduct performance testing, and what are some key performance testing types?
Performance testing assesses the system's responsiveness, scalability, and stability under different load conditions. Key types include load testing, stress testing, and scalability testing.
Q.56 Explain the concept of security testing. What are common security testing techniques?
Security testing assesses the software's vulnerability to security threats and risks. Techniques include penetration testing, code analysis, and vulnerability scanning.
Q.57 What is the difference between positive testing and negative testing?
Positive testing checks if the software behaves as expected with valid inputs, while negative testing examines how the software handles invalid or unexpected inputs.
Q.58 How do you measure the effectiveness of your testing efforts, and what metrics do you use?
I measure effectiveness by tracking metrics like defect density, test coverage, test pass/fail rates, and regression test results. These metrics provide insights into the quality and progress of testing.
Q.59 Can you explain the concept of agile testing quadrants, and how do they apply to Agile projects?
Agile testing quadrants categorize testing activities into four quadrants based on their purpose and the timing of execution. They help teams plan and prioritize testing activities in Agile projects.
Q.60 What are some challenges you've faced in software testing, and how did you overcome them?
One challenge I faced was incomplete requirements. To overcome it, I engaged in close communication with stakeholders, documented assumptions, and conducted exploratory testing to uncover hidden requirements.
Q.61 What is the role of a test manager in a testing team, and what skills are essential for this role?
A test manager is responsible for test planning, resource management, team coordination, and reporting. Essential skills include leadership, communication, test strategy development, and risk management.
Q.62 What is the difference between static testing and dynamic testing in software testing?
Static testing reviews software documentation, code, and design without executing the software, while dynamic testing involves running the software and testing its functionality.
Q.63 Can you explain the concept of test-driven development (TDD), and how does it relate to software testing?
TDD is a development approach where tests are written before the actual code. It ensures that the code meets the specified requirements and maintains the desired behavior as it evolves.
Q.64 What is the purpose of a test harness, and how is it used in software testing?
A test harness is a set of tools, scripts, and test data used to automate the execution of test cases. It provides a controlled environment for testing and collecting test results.
Q.65 Explain the concept of a test script and its role in automated testing.
A test script is a set of instructions or code that defines the steps to be executed during automated testing. It interacts with the software being tested, validates results, and reports any issues.
Q.66 What is compatibility testing, and why is it important in software testing?
Compatibility testing verifies whether the software functions correctly across different browsers, operating systems, devices, and network environments. It's important to ensure a broad user base can use the software.
Q.67 How do you approach testing for mobile applications, and what are the unique challenges in mobile app testing?
Mobile app testing involves testing on various devices, screen sizes, and operating systems. Challenges include fragmentation and the need for testing different app stores.
Q.68 What is the V-model in software testing, and how does it differ from other testing life cycle models like the waterfall model?
The V-model is a testing life cycle model that aligns testing phases with development phases. It differs from the waterfall model in that testing is integrated throughout the development process, not just at the end.
Q.69 How do you manage and prioritize test cases for regression testing as the software evolves and new features are added?
I maintain a regression test suite and prioritize test cases based on their criticality and the impact of changes. High-priority test cases are run with each release, while lower-priority cases are tested less frequently.
Q.70 What is automated test reporting, and how does it benefit the testing process?
Automated test reporting generates detailed reports on test execution, including pass/fail results, test coverage, and defect tracking. It helps stakeholders make informed decisions and assess the software's quality.
Q.71 Explain the concept of load balancing testing and its relevance in web applications.
Load balancing testing assesses how well a web application distributes incoming traffic across multiple servers. It's crucial for ensuring the application can handle high user loads without performance degradation.
Q.72 How do you ensure data privacy and security during software testing, especially when handling sensitive user data?
Data anonymization and masking techniques can be used to protect sensitive user data during testing. Access to test environments should also be restricted and monitored.
Q.73 What is the importance of test traceability, and how do you establish it in your testing process?
Test traceability links requirements, test cases, and defects, allowing us to track the coverage of test cases and ensure that all requirements are tested and validated.
Q.74 Explain the concept of code coverage in software testing. What types of code coverage are commonly used?
Code coverage measures the percentage of code executed by test cases. Common types include statement coverage, branch coverage, and path coverage.
Q.75 Can you describe your experience with test automation frameworks? What are some advantages of using test automation frameworks?
I have experience with various automation frameworks like Selenium and Appium. Automation frameworks provide structure, reusability, and scalability for automated test scripts, making maintenance easier.
Q.76 How do you handle situations when there are conflicting priorities between releasing software quickly and ensuring thorough testing?
I communicate the risks associated with rushing releases without adequate testing. It's essential to find a balance between delivering quickly and maintaining software quality to avoid compromising the user experience.
Q.77 What is the role of a test lead in a testing team, and what are the key responsibilities of this role?
A test lead is responsible for overseeing the testing process, managing the testing team, creating test plans, coordinating with stakeholders, and ensuring that testing objectives are met.
Q.78 How do you handle the prioritization of test cases when you have limited time and resources?
I prioritize test cases based on factors such as critical functionality, high-risk areas, business impact, and requirements. This ensures that the most important test cases are executed first.
Q.79 What is a test repository, and why is it useful in software testing?
A test repository is a centralized location where test artifacts, such as test cases, scripts, and data, are stored and managed. It facilitates test case reuse, version control, and collaboration among team members.
Q.80 Can you explain the concept of test-driven testing (TDT), and how does it differ from traditional testing approaches?
TDT is an approach where testing activities are driven by the testing needs and objectives. It differs from traditional testing by focusing on the test's purpose and relevance to the project's goals.
Q.81 What is the purpose of test execution reports, and what information should they include?
Test execution reports provide a summary of test results, including passed, failed, and blocked test cases. They also include defect information, test coverage metrics, and a test summary.
Q.82 How do you ensure that test cases are maintainable and adaptable as the software evolves over time?
I regularly review and update test cases to align them with changing requirements and functionality. Additionally, I use automation for regression testing to ensure that test cases remain effective.
Q.83 What is the difference between positive and negative test cases, and why are both important in testing?
Positive test cases validate expected behavior, while negative test cases validate how the software handles unexpected or invalid inputs. Both are essential to ensure the software's robustness.
Q.84 Can you describe your approach to performance testing, including the types of performance tests you've conducted?
I approach performance testing by identifying performance goals, creating realistic test scenarios, executing tests (including load, stress, and scalability tests), analyzing results, and optimizing as needed.
Q.85 What is the role of continuous integration and continuous testing in modern software development practices?
Continuous integration (CI) and continuous testing (CT) are integral to DevOps practices. CI ensures that code changes are integrated and tested continuously, helping identify issues early in the development cycle.
Q.86 Explain the concept of risk-based testing and how it influences your testing approach.
Risk-based testing involves prioritizing testing efforts based on the perceived risks associated with specific features or functionality. It ensures that testing focuses on critical areas and potential failure points.
Q.87 How do you handle situations where there is limited or incomplete documentation for a project you need to test?
In such cases, I engage in close communication with stakeholders and developers to gather as much information as possible. I also conduct exploratory testing to uncover hidden requirements and risks.
Q.88 What is the purpose of a test environment strategy, and how do you create one for a complex project?
A test environment strategy outlines how testing environments are set up, managed, and maintained. For complex projects, it involves defining environment requirements, configurations, and deployment processes.
Q.89 What is the difference between a test scenario and a test case, and how do they relate to each other?
A test scenario is a high-level description of a testing situation, while a test case is a detailed, step-by-step procedure to verify a specific aspect of the scenario. Test cases are derived from test scenarios.
Q.90 How do you ensure that your testing efforts are compliant with industry standards and regulations, such as ISO 9001 or GDPR?
I stay informed about relevant industry standards and regulations and ensure that our testing processes and procedures align with them. This may involve documentation, audits, and compliance checks.
Q.91 How is the cost effected if a defect that could have been removed during the initial stage is removed in a later stage?
If at the initial stage a defect is identified, then it should be removed during that stage/phase itself rather than at some later stage. It’s a fact that if a defect is delayed for later phases it becomes more costly.
If a defect is identified and removed during the design phase, it is the most cost effective but when removed during maintenance it becomes twenty times costlier.
Q.92 How can you can arrive at an estimation for a given project?
In order to estimate any project, you we must consider the following -
1.We must divide the whole project into the smallest tasks
2. We should then associate each task to team members
3. Then we should estimate the effort needed to complete each task
4. Thereafter validate the estimation
Q.93 Which test cases should we write first - white boxes/black boxes and why?
In general, black box test cases are written first and white box test cases later. In order to write black box test cases we would need the requirement document and, design or project plan, as there documents are easily available at the initial start of the project. On the other hand white box test cases cannot be started in the initial phase of the project since they require more architecture clarity that is not available at the beginning of the project. Therefore white box test cases are written post black box test cases are written.
Q.94 Why is automation testing in agile methodology considered useful?
Automation testing is considered extremely very useful in agile methodology as it assists in achieving maximum test coverage in a lesser time of the sprint.
Q.95 What is the basis of mapping the success of Automation testing?
The basis of mapping the success of Automation testing are -
1. Defect Detection Ratio
2. Automation execution time and time savings to release the product
3. Reduction in Labour and other costs
Q.96 How should we explain load testing on websites?
In order to access a website, a user sends a 'request' to that website’s server, and the server sends back a response in the form of the website to which we want to access. Now in order to load test a website, quality assurance engineers and automation engineers just need to multiply the number of responses sent to simulate different traffic loads. The web server’s response to the influx of virtual users can then be measured. This is used to determine performance issues and server capacity.
Q.97 What do you understand by TestNG?
TestNG is an advanced framework that has been designed in a way to leverage the benefits by both the developers and testers. TestNG also has an inbuilt exception handling mechanism that lets the program to run without terminating it unexpectedly.
Q.98 What do you understand by Object Repository and how can we create Object Repository in Selenium?
Object Repository is the collection of web elements belonging to Application Under Test (AUT) together with their locator values. Now with respect to Selenium, objects can be stored in an excel sheet which can be populated inside the script whenever required.
Q.99 What do you understand by workbench concept?
Workbench is a way of documenting how a specific activity that has to be performed. It is often referred to as phases, steps, and tasks. There are five tasks for every workbench -
1. Input
2. Execute
3. Check
4. Production output
5. Rework
Q.100 What do you understand by Defect Cascading?
Defect cascading refers to a defect that is caused by another defect. Such that one defect triggers the other defect. Therefore when a defect is present in any stage but is not identified, hide to other phases without getting noticed. This will therefore result in an increase in the number of defects.
Q.101 How can you find broken links in a page using Selenium WebDriver?
This is considered as a very tricky question which the interviewer might present. The interviewer might provide a situation wherein there are 20 links in a web page, and we have to verify which of those 20 links are working and how many are not working (broken).
You are required to verify the working of every link, for this you need to send HTTP requests to all of the links on the web page and analyze the response. Therefore whenever you use driver.get() method to navigate to a URL, it will respond with a status of 200 – OK. This demonstrates that the link is working and it has been obtained, whereas any other status indicates that the link is broken.
We can do this in the following way - At first, we have to use the anchor tags to determine the different hyperlinks on the web page. So for every tag, we can use the attribute ‘href’ value to obtain the hyperlinks and then analyze the response received when used in driver.get() method.
Q.102 Which technique should you consider in the script “if there is neither frame id nor frame name”?
In case frame name and frame id is not available, then we can use frame by index. For instance, there are 3 frames in a web page and if none of them have a frame name and frame id, then we can still select those frames by using frame (zero-based) index attribute. All the frame will have an index number like the first frame would be at index “0”, the second at index “1” and the third at index “2”.
driver.switchTo().frame(int arg0);
Q.103 How should we take screenshots in Selenium WebDriver?
We can take screenshots in Selenium WebDriver by using the TakeScreenshot function you can take a screenshot. Also with the help of getScreenshotAs() method, you can simply save that screenshot.
Example: File scrFile = ((TakeScreenshot)driver).getScreenshotAs(outputType.FILE);
Q.104 How to skip a method or a code block in TestNG?
To skip a particular test method or a code, then you can set the ‘enabled’ parameter in test annotation to false.
@Test(enabled = false)
Q.105 In software testing, what are the tasks of Test Closure activities?
Test Closure activities can be categorized in four major groups -
1. Test Completion Check: In order to ensure all tests should be either run or deliberately skipped and all known defects should be either fixed, deferred for a future release or accepted as a permanent restriction.
2. Test Artifacts handover: Tests and test environments should be handed over to those responsible for maintenance testing. Known defects accepted or deferred should be documented and communicated to those who will use and support the use of the system.
3. Lessons learned: Analyzing lessons learned to determine changes needed for future releases and projects. In retrospective meetings, plans are established to ensure that good practices can be repeated and poor practices are not repeated
4. Archiving results, logs, reports, and other documents and work products in the CMS (configuration management system).
Q.106 What do you understand by Code coverage?
Code coverage is very different from Test coverage. As code coverage is about unit testing practices that must target all areas of the code at least once. It is usually done by developers or unit testers.
Q.107 What do you understand by Big Bang Approach?
Big Bang Approach refers to the process of combining all the modules once and verifying the functionality after completion of individual module testing. The top down and bottom up are carried out by using dummy modules known as Stubs and Drivers. These Stubs and Drivers are used to stand-in for missing components to simulate data communication between modules.
Q.108 Define the principles of Software Testing.
The principles of Software Testing are -
1. Testing shows presence of defects
2. Exhaustive testing is impossible
3. Early testing
4. Defect clustering
5. Pesticide Paradox
6. Testing is context depending
7. Absence of error fallacy
Q.109 What do you understand by Pesticide Paradox?
In software testing, Pesticide Paradox refers to the process of repeating the same test cases, again and again, eventually, the same test cases will no longer find new bugs. Therefore in order to overcome this Pesticide Paradox, it is necessary to review the test cases regularly and add or update them to find more defects.
Q.110 What do you understand by Defect Cascading in Software Testing?
In Software testing. Defect cascading refers to the process triggering of other defects in an application. Such that when a defect is not identified or goes unnoticed while testing, it invokes other defects. This leads to multiple defects in the later stages and results in an increase in a number of defects in the application. For instance if there is a defect in an accounting system related to negative taxation then the negative taxation defect affects the ledger which in turn affects other reports such as Balance Sheet, Profit & Loss etc.,
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