Top 100 Manual Testing Interview Questions and Answers

Manual Testing Interview Questions

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1. What is Manual Testing?

Manual testing refers to the process of manually testing software applications to identify defects or issues. Testers execute test cases without the use of automation tools.

Explanation: Manual testing involves testers using the application as an end user would, identifying issues, and reporting them to the development team for fixing.


2. What is the Difference Between Smoke and Sanity Testing?

Smoke Testing: It’s a preliminary test to check if the major functionalities of the software work. It helps determine if a build is stable enough for further testing.

Sanity Testing: Also known as a subset of regression testing, it checks if the specific changes made in the code are working fine.


3. Can You Explain the Waterfall Model?

The Waterfall Model is a linear software development process. It consists of sequential phases like requirements, design, implementation, testing, deployment, and maintenance.

Explanation: Each phase must be completed before the next phase begins. This model is suitable for projects with well-defined requirements and less likely to change.


4. What is Black Box Testing?

Black Box Testing involves testing the application’s functionality without knowing its internal code. Testers focus on inputs and expected outputs.

Explanation: Testers are not concerned with how the software achieves results but with whether it produces the correct outputs for given inputs.


5. What is White Box Testing?

White Box Testing involves testing the internal code and structure of an application. Testers have access to the source code.

Explanation: Testers use their knowledge of the code’s internal workings to design test cases that ensure each code statement is executed at least once.


6. What is Regression Testing?

Regression testing is conducted to ensure that recent code changes haven’t adversely affected existing features. It helps in detecting unintended side effects.

Explanation: Whenever new code is added or modified, regression tests are run to ensure that the existing functionalities remain unaffected.


7. Explain the Difference Between Functional and Non-Functional Testing.

Functional Testing: It focuses on testing the functionality of the software application by feeding inputs and examining outputs.

Non-Functional Testing: It evaluates non-functional aspects like performance, usability, security, and scalability of the software.


8. What is User Acceptance Testing (UAT)?

User Acceptance Testing is the final phase of testing before the software is released. It’s conducted by the end users to ensure the software meets their requirements.

Explanation: UAT validates if the software is ready for the intended audience and if it meets their expectations.


9. What is Exploratory Testing?

Exploratory Testing is an informal testing approach where testers simultaneously design, execute, and learn from the test cases.

Explanation: Testers explore the application and identify defects while testing. It’s more about learning and adapting to the application on the go.


10. What is Equivalence Partitioning?

Equivalence Partitioning divides the input domain of a software system into equivalence classes to reduce the number of test cases.

Explanation: Test cases are designed based on representative values from each partition, ensuring that each class is tested.


11. What is Test Case?

A test case is a set of conditions and variables used to determine whether a system behaves as intended under various circumstances.

Explanation: Test cases outline the steps, inputs, and expected outputs to validate the system’s behavior.


12. What is Negative Testing?

Negative testing involves testing the application with invalid inputs or unexpected conditions to see how it handles errors.

Explanation: Negative testing helps identify how the software behaves under unexpected scenarios and ensures graceful error handling.


13. What is Smoke Testing?

Smoke testing is a preliminary test to check if the major functionalities of a software application work properly after each build.

Explanation: It’s a quick test to ensure that the critical parts are operational before in-depth testing begins.


14. What is Load Testing?

Load testing assesses how a system performs under a specific load, typically by simulating concurrent users or transactions.

Explanation: It helps in identifying performance bottlenecks and ensuring the system can handle the expected load.


15. What is White Box Testing?

White box testing is a testing technique where the internal logic and structure of the software are examined during testing.

Explanation: Testers have knowledge of the internal workings of the application and design test cases accordingly.


16. What is Black Box Testing?

Black box testing focuses on testing the software’s functionality without knowledge of its internal code or logic.

Explanation: Testers approach it from a user’s perspective, validating inputs and expected outputs.


17. Explain the Term ‘Boundary Testing.’

Boundary testing involves testing the software at its boundaries or limits, such as the minimum and maximum valid inputs.

Explanation: It’s essential to ensure the application behaves correctly at the edges of input ranges.


18. What is Monkey Testing?

Monkey testing involves random input generation to check how the software behaves under unexpected conditions.

Explanation: This approach can help uncover issues that might not be identified through scripted tests.


19. What is Compatibility Testing?

Compatibility testing verifies whether a software application functions correctly across different devices, browsers, and operating systems.

Explanation: It ensures that the software delivers consistent performance and functionality in various environments.


20. Explain the Term ‘Test Plan.’

A test plan is a document outlining the objectives, scope, approach, resources, and schedule of testing activities.

Explanation: It provides a roadmap for the testing process and helps stakeholders understand the testing strategy.


21. What is Regression Testing?

Regression testing involves retesting an application to ensure that new code changes haven’t adversely affected existing functionality.

Explanation: It’s important to identify any unintended side effects after code changes.


22. Explain the Term ‘Defect Life Cycle.’

The defect life cycle outlines the stages through which a defect goes, from identification to resolution.

Explanation: It includes phases like discovery, reporting, analysis, fixing, retesting, and closure.


23. What is Usability Testing?

Usability testing assesses how user-friendly and intuitive a software application is for its intended users.

Explanation: This testing ensures the application meets user expectations and provides a positive experience.


24. What is Ad-hoc Testing?

Ad-hoc testing is informal testing performed without predefined test cases or documentation.

Explanation: Testers use their intuition and experience to identify defects, making it useful for exploratory testing.


25. Explain the Term ‘Verification’ and ‘Validation.’

Verification checks whether the software meets its specified requirements, while validation ensures it meets the user’s actual needs.

Explanation: Verification focuses on the technical aspects, and validation focuses on the user’s perspective.


26. What is the Difference Between Smoke Testing and Sanity Testing?

Smoke testing is performed on each build to ensure basic functionalities work. Sanity testing is performed on modified builds to check specific changes.

Explanation: Both tests help catch critical issues early in the development process.


27. What is the Purpose of Test Closure?

Test closure involves finalizing testing activities and providing a summary of testing performed during the project.

Explanation: It ensures that all testing tasks are completed, and the product is ready for release.


28. What is the Difference Between Alpha Testing and Beta Testing?

Alpha testing is done by the internal team before release. Beta testing is done by external users in a real environment before public release.

Explanation: Both tests provide valuable feedback from different perspectives.


29. What is the Use of Traceability Matrix?

A traceability matrix establishes a relationship between requirements and test cases, ensuring all requirements are tested.

Explanation: It helps in maintaining comprehensive test coverage.


30. Explain the Concept of ‘Test Execution.’

Test execution is the process of running test cases, comparing actual outcomes with expected outcomes, and reporting defects.

Explanation: It’s a crucial phase to identify any deviations from expected behavior.


31. What is Equivalence Partitioning?

Equivalence partitioning involves dividing input data into equivalent classes to reduce the number of test cases.

Explanation: This technique helps cover different scenarios within the same equivalence class.


32. Explain the Difference Between Black Box Testing and White Box Testing.

Black box testing focuses on the external behavior of the application without knowledge of its internal structure. White box testing examines the internal logic of the application.

Explanation: Both testing types provide different perspectives to identify defects.


33. What is Boundary Testing?

Boundary testing examines the application’s behavior at the edge of input domains, such as minimum and maximum values.

Explanation: It’s useful for catching issues related to input boundaries.


34. Define the Term ‘Use Case.’

A use case is a description of a specific interaction between a user and the system, detailing the steps and outcomes.

Explanation: Use cases help understand user requirements and design effective tests.


35. What is Monkey Testing?

Monkey testing involves randomly clicking and exploring an application to identify unexpected behavior.

Explanation: It can uncover scenarios not covered by predefined test cases.


36. Explain the Purpose of Test Environment Setup.

Test environment setup involves preparing the testing environment to simulate the production environment.

Explanation: A proper test environment ensures accurate test results.


37. What is a Test Plan?

A test plan is a document that outlines the scope, approach, resources, schedule, and risks for a testing project.

Explanation: It provides a roadmap for the testing process.


38. Explain the Difference Between Functional Testing and Non-Functional Testing.

Functional testing verifies if the application meets functional requirements. Non-functional testing assesses aspects like performance, security, and usability.

Explanation: Both types ensure a well-rounded assessment of the application.


39. What is the Importance of Test Data?

Test data is essential to simulate real-world scenarios and verify the application’s behavior.

Explanation: Proper test data ensures comprehensive testing coverage.


40. Explain the Concept of ‘Test Scenario.’

A test scenario is a detailed description of a particular test to be executed.

Explanation: It outlines the steps, input data, and expected outcomes for a specific situation.


41. What is the Difference Between Verification and Validation?

Verification ensures that the software meets specifications and requirements. Validation ensures that the software meets the user’s needs and expectations.

Explanation: Both processes contribute to the overall quality assurance of the software.


42. Explain Regression Testing.

Regression testing involves retesting the application after changes to ensure that existing functionality is not affected.

Explanation: It prevents the introduction of new defects during development.


43. What is Smoke Testing?

Smoke testing validates if the most critical functions of the software are working properly after a build.

Explanation: It quickly identifies major issues before proceeding to more detailed testing.


44. Define Ad Hoc Testing.

Ad hoc testing is informal and unplanned testing without predefined test cases.

Explanation: It is useful for exploring the application in a spontaneous manner.


45. What is Compatibility Testing?

Compatibility testing verifies if the software works across different environments, devices, browsers, and operating systems.

Explanation: It ensures a seamless user experience across various platforms.


46. Explain Load Testing.

Load testing assesses the application’s performance under expected load conditions.

Explanation: It helps identify performance bottlenecks and potential crashes.


47. What is Usability Testing?

Usability testing evaluates the software’s user-friendliness and ease of use.

Explanation: It focuses on improving the user experience.


48. Define Defect Life Cycle.

The defect life cycle outlines the stages of a defect from discovery to resolution.

Explanation: It helps in tracking and managing defects efficiently.


49. What is a Test Case Template?

A test case template is a document that outlines the structure and details of a test case.

Explanation: It provides consistency in creating and executing test cases.


50. Explain the Importance of Regression Testing.

Regression testing ensures that new changes do not impact existing functionality.

Explanation: It safeguards against unexpected defects in the software.


51. What is Boundary Testing?

Boundary testing evaluates the software’s behavior at the edge of its input limits.

Explanation: It ensures that the software handles boundary values correctly.


52. Explain Sanity Testing.

Sanity testing verifies if specific functionalities are working as expected after changes.

Explanation: It is a quick check before more comprehensive testing.


53. What is Exploratory Testing?

Exploratory testing involves simultaneous learning and testing without predefined test cases.

Explanation: Testers explore the application and discover defects.


54. Define Alpha Testing.

Alpha testing is performed by internal users before releasing the software to the public.

Explanation: It identifies issues before external users encounter them.


55. What is Beta Testing?

Beta testing involves external users testing the software before the official release.

Explanation: It gathers real-world user feedback.


56. Explain Security Testing.

Security testing identifies vulnerabilities and ensures the software’s security features.

Explanation: It protects against unauthorized access and data breaches.


57. What is the Purpose of Configuration Management?

Configuration management tracks and controls changes to the software and its components.

Explanation: It ensures the software remains stable and consistent.


58. Define Usability Testing.

Usability testing assesses the software’s user-friendliness and ease of use.

Explanation: It focuses on improving the overall user experience.


59. What is a Test Plan?

A test plan is a comprehensive document that outlines the testing approach, scope, resources, and schedule.

Explanation: It guides the testing process and ensures systematic testing.


60. Explain Ad Hoc Testing.

Ad hoc testing is informal and unstructured testing without predefined test cases.

Explanation: It is useful for identifying unexpected issues.


61. What is a Defect Report?

A defect report is a document that outlines the details of a discovered defect.

Explanation: It provides information for developers to fix the defect.


62. Explain Compatibility Testing.

Compatibility testing verifies if the software works across different environments and platforms.

Explanation: It ensures a consistent user experience.


63. What is Smoke Testing?

Smoke testing validates if the most critical functions of the software work properly after changes.

Explanation: It identifies major issues early in the testing process.


64. Define Test Case Prioritization.

Test case prioritization ranks test cases based on their importance and impact.

Explanation: It ensures critical functionalities are tested first.


65. What is Equivalence Partitioning?

Equivalence partitioning divides input data into classes to reduce redundant testing.

Explanation: It maximizes test coverage with fewer test cases.


66. Explain Load Testing.

Load testing evaluates how the software performs under expected load conditions.

Explanation: It identifies performance bottlenecks and capacity limits.


67. Define Volume Testing.

Volume testing assesses the software’s performance with a large volume of data.

Explanation: It checks for scalability and data handling capabilities.


68. What is Regression Testing?

Regression testing ensures that new changes don’t adversely affect existing functionalities.

Explanation: It prevents regression defects and maintains software quality.


69. Explain Performance Testing.

Performance testing evaluates the software’s responsiveness, speed, and stability.

Explanation: It ensures optimal performance under different scenarios.


70. What is Test Automation?

Test automation involves using tools to execute tests and compare results with expected outcomes.

Explanation: It improves efficiency and repeatability of testing.


71. Define Monkey Testing.

Monkey testing randomly inputs data to find unexpected defects.

Explanation: It is exploratory and can uncover hidden issues.


72. What is Black Box Testing?

Black box testing focuses on testing the software’s functionality without knowing its internal structure.

Explanation: It validates if the software meets requirements.


73. Explain White Box Testing.

White box testing examines the software’s internal code and logic.

Explanation: It ensures thorough code coverage and optimization.


74. What is Grey Box Testing?

Grey box testing combines elements of black and white box testing.

Explanation: Testers have partial knowledge of the software’s internal workings.


75. Define Usability Testing.

Usability testing assesses the software’s user-friendliness and ease of use.

Explanation: It focuses on improving the overall user experience.


76. Explain Security Testing.

Security testing identifies vulnerabilities and ensures the software’s security features.

Explanation: It protects against unauthorized access and data breaches.


77. What is the Purpose of Configuration Management?

Configuration management tracks and controls changes to the software and its components.

Explanation: It ensures the software remains stable and consistent.


78. Define Test Planning.

Test planning involves creating a detailed strategy for conducting testing activities.

Explanation: It outlines the scope, objectives, and resources for testing.


79. Explain Smoke Testing.

Smoke testing verifies if the most critical functions of the software work properly after changes.

Explanation: It identifies major issues early in the testing process.


80. What is Acceptance Testing?

Acceptance testing verifies if the software meets user requirements and is ready for release.

Explanation: It ensures alignment with user expectations.


81. Define Sanity Testing.

Sanity testing verifies if specific functionalities are working as expected after changes.

Explanation: It is a quick check before more comprehensive testing.


82. What is Compatibility Testing?

Compatibility testing ensures that the software works correctly on different platforms, browsers, and devices.

Explanation: It guarantees a consistent experience for users.


83. Explain Boundary Testing.

Boundary testing checks how the software handles inputs at the edge of permissible limits.

Explanation: It ensures accurate processing of boundary values.


84. Define Equivalence Partitioning.

Equivalence partitioning divides input data into valid and invalid groups.

Explanation: It reduces the number of test cases while covering all scenarios.


85. What is Negative Testing?

Negative testing checks how the software handles incorrect inputs and error conditions.

Explanation: It validates error-handling mechanisms.


86. Explain Data-Driven Testing.

Data-driven testing uses external data sources to test various scenarios.

Explanation: It allows testing a wide range of inputs without writing new tests.


87. Define State Transition Testing.

State transition testing examines how the software transitions between different states.

Explanation: It is useful for applications with changing states.


88. What is Exploratory Testing?

Exploratory testing involves unscripted testing to uncover defects through exploration.

Explanation: Testers learn about the software while testing.


89. Explain Alpha Testing.

Alpha testing involves testing by a select group of users before public release.

Explanation: It identifies issues in a controlled environment.


90. Define Beta Testing.

Beta testing is the final testing phase involving real users in a real environment.

Explanation: It gathers user feedback and uncovers real-world issues.


91. What is Localization Testing?

Localization testing verifies if the software is adapted for specific languages and regions.

Explanation: It ensures cultural and linguistic compatibility.


92. Explain Globalization Testing.

Globalization testing checks if the software can be used globally across different cultures.

Explanation: It focuses on internationalization and localization aspects.


93. Define Load Testing.

Load testing evaluates how the software performs under expected load conditions.

Explanation: It identifies performance bottlenecks and capacity limits.


94. What is Volume Testing?

Volume testing assesses the software’s performance with a large volume of data.

Explanation: It checks for scalability and data handling capabilities.


95. Explain Stress Testing.

Stress testing evaluates the software’s stability under extreme conditions.

Explanation: It pushes the software to its limits.


96. Define Spike Testing.

Spike testing assesses the software’s performance when there’s a sudden increase in users or load.

Explanation: It checks for handling spikes in traffic.


97. What is Endurance Testing?

Endurance testing checks if the software can handle a sustained load over an extended period.

Explanation: It validates long-term stability.


98. Explain Benchmark Testing.

Benchmark testing compares the software’s performance with industry standards or competitors.

Explanation: It provides a performance reference point.


99. Define Recovery Testing.

Recovery testing assesses how quickly the software can recover from crashes or failures.

Explanation: It ensures data integrity and system reliability.


100. What is Usability Testing?

Usability testing assesses the software’s user-friendliness and ease of use.

Explanation: It focuses on improving the overall user experience.