The Manual Testing Guide: What It Is, Use Cases, and How-To’s

In software development, manual testing is key to ensuring quality and user satisfaction. This guide covers the basics of manual testing, its types, and how to perform it effectively.

Studies show that 41% of software bugs are found through manual testing. In this article, we’ll explore different types of manual testing, such as exploratory, usability, and regression testing. We’ll also compare manual testing with automated testing. 

What is Manual Testing?

Imagine uncovering a bridge’s design flaw just before it opens to the public. Manual testing in software development serves a similar purpose. It is the hands-on process of evaluating software for defects without using automation tools.

Manual software testing is essential in the software development life cycle. It involves testers using the application as end-users would. This helps identify bugs, usability issues, and inconsistencies.

Manual testing provides insights that automated tests might overlook. It can uncover user interface anomalies and unexpected user behavior. This method helps ensure the software performs as expected under various conditions.

Despite the rise of automated testing, manual software testing remains crucial. It allows testers to use their intuition, creativity, and critical thinking. This human touch is vital for finding subtle issues. Let’s explore the types of manual testing. 

Types of Manual Testing

Here are the types of manual QA testing:

Exploratory Testing

Exploratory testing, a planned testing phase, involves testers exploring the software without a predefined test case to identify defects or areas for improvement. 

It is highly beneficial for discovering unexpected issues and is useful where testers need to understand the software’s behavior under different conditions.

Ad Hoc Testing

Ad hoc testing is an informal and random approach in which testers execute test cases without a predefined plan. 

It is often used when time is limited or specific issues need quick verification. This type of testing relies heavily on the tester’s experience and intuition.

Usability Testing

Usability testing evaluates a software product’s user-friendliness. Techniques include user interviews, surveys, and direct observation. This testing helps identify user experience issues.

Smoke Testing

Smoke manual QA testing is a quick, surface-level check of basic functionality. It ensures the software is stable enough for more extensive testing. This process helps catch critical defects early.

Regression Testing

Regression manual QA testing involves retesting previously working functionality after code changes. It ensures that new updates do not introduce new defects or disrupt existing features, helping to maintain software stability over time.

User Acceptance Testing (UAT)

User Acceptance Testing (UAT) ensures the software meets end-users’ requirements and expectations. Typically performed by end-users or a representative group, UAT validates the software’s readiness for production.

Localization Testing

Localization testing ensures that a software product is adapted to meet the requirements of a specific target market or locale. It verifies language, cultural, and regional preferences, addressing challenges like translations and regional settings.

Functional Testing

Functional testing is the most common type of manual testing. It involves validating the software’s functionality against specified requirements. This includes:

Black Box Testing

In this method, the tester or QA analyst evaluates the functionality of a specific module, method, or application’s functionality without any knowledge or access to the back-end code. 

The tester inputs data into the application and tests it manually. If the output matches the expected results, the tester proceeds with a new set of inputs and reports all findings to the team. 

The issue is reported to the development team if the input fails during testing.

White Box Testing 

In this approach, the tester, with access to the back-end code, manually examines the system’s internal structure. The development team reviews the code line by line to ensure its correctness. 

If any discrepancies or errors are found, they are corrected. This process is entirely manual and considered efficient as the code or design is meticulously checked by humans.

Gray Box Testing

This technique combines elements of both white-box and black-box testing. The tester has partial knowledge of the application’s internal structure. 

They evaluate the application’s internal structure and functionality manually, examining the code and testing the application with various test cases. 

If an input fails, the tester adjusts the code accordingly.

Payment Testing

Payment testing checks real-world payment conditions to ensure smooth transactions. Manual testing in this context verifies that payment flows, transaction processes, and security measures function correctly.

System Testing

System testing involves testing the entire system to ensure its functionality, performance, and compatibility with different components. 

Integration Testing

Integration testing checks the interaction between integrated components or systems. It is essential to ensure that combined parts work together as expected.

Unit Testing

Unit testing focuses on individual software components or units. It is critical to verify that each part functions correctly. 

Importance of Manual Testing in Software Development

Manual testing is essential for identifying issues that require human creativity, intuition, and context-based judgment.

Enhanced User Experience

Manual testing process ensures software is intuitive and user-friendly. Testers assess usability, accessibility, and overall user experience.

Error Detection in Real-World Context

Manual testing identifies issues that automated testing might miss. Human testers can reproduce complex scenarios and catch edge cases.

Validation of Assumptions and Requirements

Manual testing verifies if the software meets specified requirements and business logic. Testers evaluate the application to ensure it aligns with user expectations and compliance regulations.

Adapting to Change

Manual testing process provides flexibility to handle changes, such as new feature requirements. Testers can quickly adjust test cases and explore new areas to ensure the software remains robust.

Manual Testing vs Automation Testing

Automation testing is a testing approach that uses tools and scripts to execute test cases. It automates repetitive tasks, ensuring efficiency and accuracy in the testing process. 

Understanding the differences between manual testing process and automation testing is essential for determining the right approach for your software project. Let’s explore the key differences:

Human Involvement

Manual testing relies on human testers who interact with the software and observe its behavior. Testers use their intuition and experience to uncover issues. 

In contrast, automation testing eliminates human intervention by relying on scripts to execute predefined test cases. This reduces human error and allows for consistent execution of tests.

Test Coverage

Manual testing allows for comprehensive test coverage as human testers can explore various scenarios and use their judgment. They can adapt to unexpected issues and explore uncharted areas of the application. 

Automation testing, on the other hand, is best suited for repetitive and narrowly defined test cases. It ensures thorough coverage of specific functionalities but may miss out on exploratory aspects.

Time and Cost

Manual testing can be time-consuming and expensive, especially for large and complex software projects. Each test case needs to be executed manually, which can lead to longer testing cycles. 

Automation testing can save time and costs in the long run by enabling faster test execution and scalability. Once scripts are written, they can be reused, making the testing process more efficient.

Early Testing

Automation testing can be integrated into the early stages of development. It works well with continuous integration and delivery processes, allowing for immediate feedback on code changes. 

Manual testing usually occurs towards the end of the development cycle. It validates the final product and ensures it meets user requirements.

The Manual Testing Process

Here are the eight steps towards the manual testing process:

Step 1: Understanding Requirements

Understanding the requirements is the foundation of effective manual testing. This initial phase involves thoroughly reviewing and comprehending the software requirements and specifications.

Key aspects of understanding requirements include: 

  1. Analyzing Functional and Non-Functional Requirements
    This involves understanding the software’s intended functionalities (functional requirements) and performance under specific conditions (non-functional requirements).
  2. Identifying the Scope of Testing
    This aspect determines the areas of the software that require testing and the depth of testing needed.
  3. Clarifying Ambiguities 
    Addressing any uncertainties or unclear aspects of the requirements to avoid misinterpretations during testing.

To effectively understand requirements:

  • Review the requirements with stakeholders to ensure a shared understanding and gather diverse perspectives.
  • Engage with stakeholders to resolve any ambiguities and comprehensively understand the requirements.
  • Clearly outline the test objectives to guide the testing process and ensure alignment with the requirements.

Step 2: Developing a Test Plan

Developing a test plan is an important step in manual testing. It serves as a roadmap for the testing process. A well-structured test plan ensures systematic and organized testing.

Key elements of a test plan include:

  1. Test Objectives
    Define the goals and objectives of the testing process.
  2. Testing Scope
    Outline the scope of testing, specifying the features and functionalities to be tested.
  3. Test Deliverables 
    Identify the deliverables, such as test cases, test scripts, and test reports, that will be produced during the testing process.
  4. Test Environment 
    Describe the environment in which the testing will occur, including hardware, software, and network configurations.
  5. Test Schedule
    Develop a timeline for the testing activities, including milestones and deadlines.
  6. Resource Allocation 
    Allocate resources, including personnel, tools, and equipment, necessary for the testing process.

Best practices for developing an effective test plan include:

  • Engage stakeholders in developing the test plan to ensure that all perspectives are considered and requirements are accurately captured.
  • Keep the test plan flexible to accommodate changes in requirements or unforeseen issues during testing.
  • Maintain detailed test plan documentation to guide the current testing process and serve as a reference for future projects.

A well-developed test plan sets the foundation for successful manual testing, ensuring efficient and thorough test execution.

Step 3: Writing Test Cases

Writing test cases is an important aspect of manual testing. Test cases provide detailed steps and instructions for testers to follow. Unlike automated testing, testers follow those instructions manually in manual software testing. 

Key elements of well-written test cases include:

  1. Clear and Concise Description 
    Provide a clear description of the test objective, outlining what the test aims to achieve.
  2. Preconditions 
    Specify any conditions that must be met before executing the test.
  3. Steps to Execute the Test 
    Outline the specific steps that need to be followed to perform the test.
  4. Expected Results 
    Define the expected outcomes of the test, against which the actual results will be compared.

Thorough documentation of test cases, including any additional information, attachments, or references that aid in test execution, is essential. 

Well-written test cases contribute to effective test execution, accurate defect identification, and overall software quality assurance.

Step 4: Setting Up the Test Environment

A stable and representative test environment is crucial for manual testing. The test environment should closely mimic the production environment to ensure that testing results are accurate and reliable.

Steps involved in setting up the test environment

  1. Installing Required Software 
    Ensure all necessary software applications are installed and configured correctly.
  2. Configuring Hardware and Network Settings 
    Set up hardware and network configurations to replicate the production environment.
  3. Preparing Test Data 
    Generate and organize test data that reflects real-world scenarios and edge cases.

Best Practices

  • Employ test data that accurately represents various user scenarios and data conditions.
  • Safeguard sensitive information and comply with data protection regulations.
  • Remove or anonymize any sensitive data to prevent security breaches.

A stable and accurate test environment is fundamental to successful manual testing and provides a reliable basis for test execution.

Step 5: Executing Test Cases

Executing test cases is when the actual testing occurs, verifying the software’s functionality by following the predefined test cases.

Preparations for executing test cases

1) Ensuring Availability of Test Documentation 
Ensure that all required test documentation is accessible and up-to-date.

2) Setting Up Necessary Test Tools 
Prepare any tools or resources needed for test execution.

3) Organizing Test Data 
Arrange test data in a manner that facilitates efficient test execution.

During test execution, testers should:

  • Adhere to the steps specified in each test case, performing the necessary actions and observations.
  • Accurately document any discrepancies or unexpected outcomes encountered during testing.

Test coverage is a critical consideration in test execution. It ensures that all functionalities, edge cases, and potential risk areas are adequately tested. 

Best Practices for Test Execution

  • Employ a test management tool to track progress and manage test cases.
  • Foster effective communication with the team and stakeholders to address issues promptly.
  • Continuously review and update test cases to reflect any changes in requirements or functionality.

Step 6: Logging Defects

Logging defects is a vital step in the testing process. It allows for the tracking and communication of issues identified during testing.

The Process of Logging Defects

  1. Documenting Relevant Information 
    Record all pertinent details about the defect, including a description, reproduction steps, expected behavior, and actual behavior observed.
  2. Providing Clear and Concise Information 
    Ensure that the defect report is clear and comprehensive to facilitate resolution.

It is essential to categorize defects based on severity or priority. Defect severity levels typically include critical, major, minor, and cosmetic.

Step 7: Effective Defect Logging

  • Attach screenshots or recordings to provide visual context.
  • Maintain clarity by documenting each defect separately.
  • Confirm that the defect can be consistently reproduced before logging it.

Step 8: Analyzing Results and Reporting

Analyzing results and reporting is a critical phase in manual testing. It enables the identification of issues and inconsistencies in the software and providing accurate reports to stakeholders.

The Process of Analyzing Test Results 

  1. Reviewing Test Execution Logs 
    Examine the logs to compare expected results with actual outcomes and identify any deviations or failures.
  2. Thorough Analysis 
    Conduct a detailed analysis to ensure comprehensive coverage and accurate reporting.

Here is how documenting the analysis process takes place:

  • Record the test cases that were executed and their outcomes.
  • Compare the expected results with the actual results and note any discrepancies.
  • Include any other relevant insights or observations from the analysis.

The test report should be concise, clear, and accessible to stakeholders, such as the development team and project managers. Prompt reporting facilitates quick issue resolution, informed decision-making, and transparency in the testing process.

Step 9: Retesting and Regression Testing

Retesting involves re-executing test cases that failed during the initial testing phase to verify if defects have been fixed and the expected results are achieved.

The significance of retesting lies in ensuring that defect fixes are successful and do not introduce new issues. 

Effective Retesting Practices

  • Prioritize test cases based on the severity of the defects.
  • Confirm that fixes work correctly before integrating them into the overall system.
  • Record the outcomes of the retests for future reference.

Regression testing is crucial for maintaining software stability and reliability. It involves re-testing the software to ensure that recent changes have not adversely affected existing functionality.

A well-defined regression testing strategy has the following steps:

  • Determine how often regression tests will be conducted.
  • Select test cases based on areas most likely to be impacted by recent changes or fixes.
  • Focus on high-risk areas to maximize the effectiveness of regression testing. 

Final Thoughts

Manual testing is a key part of the software development process. Despite advances in automation, human testers bring essential insights.

This guide covered different types of manual testing, such as exploratory, usability, and regression testing. Each type has its purpose and benefits. The guide also explained several steps in the manual testing. 

Businesses looking to ensure the highest quality of their software should consider partnering with Testlio. As a leading provider in QA testing, Testlio’s primary focus is always on quality.  Visit Testlio.com to learn how our expert testing services can help you achieve superior software performance and user satisfaction.