testcases

A test case is a set of conditions or variables under which a tester determines whether a software product behaves as expected. It specifies inputs, execution steps, preconditions, and the expected results, and is used to reproduce a particular behavior or defect.

Common elements include an identifier, title, objective, prerequisites, test data, test steps, expected result, actual result, status, environment, author, and date. Some organizations also record postconditions and traceability to a requirement or user story.

Test cases are distinct from test scenarios and test scripts. A scenario describes a broader situation to test, while a script is a concrete sequence of actions to execute. Test cases can be executed manually or automated with test scripts. They may cover functional requirements, as well as non-functional aspects such as performance or security, and can be positive (confirming correct behavior) or negative (verifying error handling). Design techniques such as boundary value analysis and equivalence partitioning guide their creation.

Test cases are managed in test case management tools and linked to requirements for traceability. They should be versioned, reusable, and maintained as the product evolves. When executed, results are logged to support defect reproduction and regression testing.

Best practices include clear, unambiguous steps; deterministic data; independent steps; explicit expected outcomes; and explicit setup and teardown. Well-maintained test cases help ensure consistent testing, facilitate automation, and support auditability.