What is a Test Case?
A test case is a documented set of actions, conditions, data, and expected results designed to verify whether a particular feature or functionality of an application works as intended. It acts like a blueprint to validate software behavior, ensuring it meets the requirements.
Importance of Test Cases
- Ensure consistent, repeatable testing
- Make it easier for anyone on the team to verify the same behavior
- Reduce defects in production by validating requirements early
- Support traceability (linking back to requirements or user stories)
- Help new testers quickly understand how to test a feature
Format of a Good Test Case
Typically, a test case includes these fields:
- Test Case ID: Unique identifier
- Title: What this test is about
- Description: Brief explanation of the scenario
- Preconditions: Anything that must exist before you start
- Test Data: The inputs to use
- Test Steps: Step-by-step actions
- Expected Result: What the system should do
- Actual Result: (filled after execution)
- Status: Pass/Fail
- Remarks: Any observations
How to Write Simple Test Cases
- Keep them clear and concise
- Use simple language, avoid ambiguity
- Include only one verification point per test case if possible
- Write reusable steps where possible
- Add preconditions so testers know what to set up
- Make sure the expected results are measurable and objective
Example Test Case
User Story: As a user, I want to be able to reset my password so I can regain access if I forget it.
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Test Case ID | TC-001 |
| Title | Verify password reset with valid email |
| Description | User should receive reset email when requesting with registered email |
| Preconditions | User account exists with valid email |
| Test Data | user@example.com |
| Test Steps |
1. Go to forgot password screen 2. Enter user@example.com 3. Click submit |
| Expected Result | Email sent with password reset link |
| Actual Result | (to be filled after test) |
| Status | Pass/Fail |
| Remarks | - |
Pro Tips for Writing Test Cases
- Always trace back to the user story or requirement
- Use consistent terminology (e.g., avoid mixing “submit” vs. “save”)
- Keep tests independent — one failing test should not block others
- Think like the end user — test real scenarios
- Prioritize critical business flows first
- Add negative test cases (wrong password, invalid inputs, etc.)
How to Analyze User Stories to Create Test Cases
- Read the user story carefully : Understand what is being asked
- Identify acceptance criteria: Usually listed with the user story — these define success
- Break down scenarios: Think of happy path and alternate/error flows
- Use mind maps: Sketch test ideas around the story
- Ask questions: Clarify any doubts with product owners
- Think edge cases: Missing fields? Invalid inputs? Data boundaries?
- Write test conditions first, then expand into detailed test cases
Example:
User Story: “As a user, I can search products by keyword.”
- Test with a valid keyword
- Test with no keyword
- Test with special characters
- Test with a very long keyword
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Test Case Writing
- Writing vague expected results
- Missing preconditions
- Combining too many checks in a single test case
- Skipping boundary or negative cases
- Copy-pasting without review
- Using overly complex language
- Forgetting to review and update cases after product changes