srctest

Srctest is a term used in software development to refer to tests that exercise the source code of a project. It is not the name of a single universal tool or framework, but rather a convention found in documentation and build configurations to describe the testing of internal code paths. In practice, srctest often denotes tests that target the project’s own source and modules, as opposed to tests that exercise external systems or end-to-end scenarios.

Usage and organization vary by language and project. Many projects place their tests in a dedicated test directory within the source tree, commonly named src/test or tests. The srctest concept helps distinguish these internal tests from other forms of testing such as integration tests, performance tests, or external compliance tests. Test discovery and execution are typically handled by the project’s chosen build tool or test framework.

Common languages and their conventions illustrate the variation. For example, Java projects frequently locate unit tests under src/test/java, while Python projects may use tests or src/tests directories. C and C++ projects often maintain a tests directory or a separate test suite linked into the build system. The exact layout and naming are project-specific, but the underlying idea is to organize tests alongside or within the source tree to reflect their role in validating the codebase.

Impact and purpose: srctest suites aim to verify internal APIs, modules, and logic early in the development cycle. They support regression testing, help catch defects before release, and are commonly integrated into continuous integration pipelines. Because srctest is not standardized, readers should consult each project’s documentation for precise conventions.