Exploratory Testing

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Exploratory testing

Exploratory testing is a type of software testing that includes learning, designing, and executing tests immediately. Exploratory testing relies on the tester's curiosity, skills, knowledge, and creativity to explore the software and find defects. Exploratory testing is not scripted in advance, but guided by the tester's observations and intuition.

Exploratory testing examples

• You do the exploratory testing of your online music streaming website by operating different features, such as searching for songs, creating playlists, downloading songs, etc. You discover and report any defects that you encounter while using the website.
• You perform the exploratory testing of your email app by sending and receiving emails with different combinations of recipients, and different attachment sizes and formats, etc. You test the functionality and usability of the app and report any defects that you find while using the app.
• You perform exploratory testing on your calculator software by performing different calculations, such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, etc. in different orders. You validate the accuracy of the software and report any defects with incorrect or unexpected results.
• You do the exploratory testing of your photo editing software by applying different filters, effects, and adjustments to your test photos. You evaluate the quality and performance of the software and report any defects or usability issues faced while using the software.

Tips for exploratory testing

• Define a clear scope, objective and time slot for your exploratory testing session.
  
• Use a variety of techniques to explore the software, such as heuristics, checklists, mind maps, etc. Take notes during your session.
  
• Document your findings and feedback during or after your exploratory testing session.
• Analyze your findings and prioritize recommendations based on their impact and severity.

FAQ (interview questions and answers)

1. What is the difference between exploratory testing and ad hoc testing?
   Exploratory testing is a structured and systematic approach to software testing that involves learning, designing, and executing tests immediately. Ad hoc testing is a random and informal approach to software testing that involves testing without any specific plan or strategy. Exploratory testing needs wider and deeper skills than ad hoc testing.
   
2. What are some benefits of exploratory testing?
   It can find defects that are not covered by other types of testing. It can save time and resources by not needing documented test cases. It can enhance the tester's skills and knowledge. It may increase the tester's engagement and motivation.
3. Is exploratory testing a type of manual or automated testing?
   Exploratory testing is a type of manual testing that involves human interaction and judgment. However, the tester may use automated tools to support or complement the manual exploration.
4. How do you measure the effectiveness of exploratory testing?
   By measuring number of defects found and defect severity, defect density, test coverage, test duration, tester satisfaction and analyzing them with scripted testing results.

Remember to just comment if you have any doubts or queries.