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Exploratory Testing

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Exploratory testing is a software testing technique where testers explore the software to find bugs and defects. It is unplanned and unscripted, so it doesn't require any prior knowledge of the software. Testers simply explore the application, trying to find as many bugs as they can.

Benefits of Exploratory Testing

Exploratory testing has a number of benefits over traditional scripted testing, including:

  • It can be performed more quickly, since testers don't have to spend time planning and scripting tests.
  • It is more flexible, since testers can adapt their testing as they learn more about the software.
  • It is more effective at finding bugs, since testers can explore areas of the software that scripted tests might not cover.
  • It provides a better learning experience for testers, since they are constantly exploring and experimenting with the software.

How to Perform Exploratory Testing

To perform exploratory testing, you need to:

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Exploratory testing is a software testing technique where testers explore the software to find bugs and defects. It is unplanned and unscripted, so it doesn't require any prior knowledge of the software. Testers simply explore the application, trying to find as many bugs as they can.

Benefits of Exploratory Testing

Exploratory testing has a number of benefits over traditional scripted testing, including:

  • It can be performed more quickly, since testers don't have to spend time planning and scripting tests.
  • It is more flexible, since testers can adapt their testing as they learn more about the software.
  • It is more effective at finding bugs, since testers can explore areas of the software that scripted tests might not cover.
  • It provides a better learning experience for testers, since they are constantly exploring and experimenting with the software.

How to Perform Exploratory Testing

To perform exploratory testing, you need to:

  • Start by getting to know the software. This includes reading the documentation, talking to the developers, and playing around with the application.
  • Once you have a basic understanding of the software, start exploring it. Look for any bugs or defects that you can find. You can use a variety of testing techniques, such as black-box testing, white-box testing, and fuzz testing, depending on the particular case.
  • Document any bugs or defects that you find. This includes taking screenshots, writing descriptions, and providing steps to reproduce the bug.
  • Report the bugs or defects to the development team.

Careers in Exploratory Testing

There are a number of careers in exploratory testing, including:

  • Software tester
  • Quality assurance analyst
  • Test manager
  • Test automation engineer
  • Software developer

The Best Online Courses for Exploratory Testing

There are a number of online courses that can help you learn more about exploratory testing. Some of the best courses include:

  • Exploratory Testing: A Practical Approach
  • Exploratory Testing in the Agile World
  • Mastering Exploratory Testing
  • Advanced Exploratory Testing
  • Exploratory Testing for Mobile Applications

These courses will teach you the basics of Exploratory testing, as well as more advanced techniques. They will also provide you with the opportunity to practice your skills and get feedback from experienced testers.

Conclusion

Exploratory testing is a valuable software testing technique that can help you find more bugs and defects than traditional scripted testing. It is a quick, flexible, and effective way to test software, and it is a great way to learn more about the software development process.

Path to Exploratory Testing

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We've curated two courses to help you on your path to Exploratory Testing. Use these to develop your skills, build background knowledge, and put what you learn to practice.
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Reading list

We've selected seven books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Exploratory Testing.
Comprehensive guide to exploratory testing, covering everything from the basics to advanced techniques. It is written by three of the leading experts in the field, and is essential reading for anyone who wants to learn more about exploratory testing.
Provides a practical guide to context-driven testing, a type of exploratory testing that is based on the context of the software being tested. It is an excellent resource for anyone who wants to learn more about this approach to testing.
Collection of tips, tricks, and techniques for exploratory testing. It is written by one of the leading experts in the field, and valuable resource for anyone who wants to improve their exploratory testing skills.
Provides a comprehensive overview of software testing, covering everything from the basics to advanced techniques. It is an excellent resource for anyone who wants to learn more about software testing.
Classic in the field of software testing. It provides a comprehensive overview of the subject, and is an essential reading for anyone who wants to learn more about software testing.
Provides a test management approach to exploratory testing. It covers how to plan, execute, and manage exploratory testing projects.
Comprehensive guide to software testing. It covers a wide range of topics, including test planning, test execution, and test reporting.
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