testmethod

Testmethod is a term used in software engineering to describe a unit of testing activity designed to verify the behavior of software under controlled conditions. A testmethod can be manual, where a tester performs steps and records results, or automated, where a test script or function is executed by a test framework.

A testmethod typically comprises a test object, preconditions, input data, test steps, and an expected result. The testmethod is part of a test case or test suite and is designed using test design techniques such as boundary-value analysis or equivalence partitioning to ensure meaningful coverage. Effective testmethods are repeatable, traceable to requirements, and independent to avoid interference between tests.

In programming contexts, a testmethod often means a function or method contained within a test class that exercises a unit of code. It is usually identified to the testing framework by an annotation or naming convention (for example, methods named "test..." or marked with a test attribute). Testmethods are run to confirm that code behaves as intended and to detect regressions after changes.

Common categories of testmethods include unit tests, integration tests, functional tests, and non-functional tests (performance, reliability). They can be black-box (focusing on input-output for a specification) or white-box (exercising internal logic). The practice aims to support quality assurance, facilitate maintenance, and enable automated regression testing.