Hi there! Starting a career in software testing? Smart move. As companies rely more on software to run their business, the demand for skilled QA testers keeps growing.
Did you know the average salary for software testers in the US is over $85,000? And with development practices like DevOps and continuous delivery becoming mainstream, qualified testers are highly sought after.
Testing is a niche skill that requires learning specialized tools and techniques. Here are the top 10 things every new software tester should absolutely master:
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1. Automation Testing
Automation testing allows executing thousands of test cases at blazing speeds. For new testers, this is a must-have skill.
Popular frameworks like Selenium and Cypress simplify automating GUI tests. Try setting up a personal project to get hands-on practice with automation.
Here‘s a comparison of leading test automation frameworks:
| Framework | Supported Languages | Mobile Support | CI/CD Integration | Learning Curve |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Selenium | Java, C#, Python, JS | Android, iOS web apps | Jenkins, CircleCI | Medium |
| Cypress | JavaScript | Limited | All CI tools | Easy |
| TestComplete | JScript, VBScript, C++, Python | iOS, Android native apps | Jenkins, TeamCity | High |
Automation is a force multiplier for testers. It frees up time from repetitive tasks to focus on complex scenarios and exploratory testing.
2. Programming Fundamentals
Having basic programming skills allows testers to comprehend code snippets and diagnose defects faster.
Ideal languages to learn are Java, JavaScript, C# etc. Fixing simple UI bugs helps build credibility with developers.
Set up a GitHub repository to build mini-applications. Experiment with language constructs like functions, loops, arrays etc.
3. Software Development Lifecycles
Understand how testing activities fit into development processes like:
Waterfall – Sequential phases from requirements to deployment. Rigid testing after build stage
Agile – Iterative delivery with continuous testing. Flexible testing every sprint
Agile prioritizes early and frequent testing. This prevents defects piling up end-stage like in waterfall.
Knowing the SDLC helps coordinate testing with stakeholders.
4. Project Architecture
Before testing, analyze the application architecture – UI frontend, APIs, database, integrations etc.
This helps designing optimal test scenarios. For example, focus API tests for a microservices architecture.
Review design documents and question developers. Draw system diagrams to visualize flows.
5. Reporting Bugs
Effective bug reporting is crucial for timely diagnosis and resolution.
Follow these tips:
- Summarize expected vs actual result
- Provide exact steps to reproduce
- Include screenshots, videos and logs
- Note test data, environment details
- Tag priority and severity
Sloppy reporting causes delays. Be detailed so developers can quickly fix issues.
6. Testing Types & Tools
Get familiar with types like:
Functional – Validate requirements
Performance – Stress testing, load testing
Security – Penetration testing, static analysis
Compatibility – Browsers, devices
Popular tools include JMeter, Selenium, Burp Suite etc.
Learning to test holistically improves effectiveness.
7. Time Management
Meet deadlines by planning test sprints aligned to development.
Prioritize test cases using techniques like risk analysis. Eliminate wasteful activities.
Perfect your time management skills to handle release pressure.
8. Attention to Detail
Be meticulous in testing edge cases. Slow down test execution if needed.
Repeat tests under different conditions to catch inconsistencies.
Don‘t dismiss obscure defects. These could frustrate customers.
9. Communication Skills
Testing requires close collaboration with various teams.
Improve written reports and verbal discussion skills. Convey blocking issues early.
Provide clear test status updates to leadership.
10. Accountability
Customer satisfaction depends on shipping quality software.
Consider yourself the final gatekeeper before release. Refuse to let defects through.
Have an ownership mindset beyond just finding bugs.
Testing is a rewarding career full of learning opportunities. Master these fundamentals before diving deeper into advanced topics.
Keep yourself updated by attending conferences and reading testing blogs. Be adaptable to leverage new innovations like AI powered testing tools.
Remember, outstanding testers are made not born! With the right passion and persistence, you will soon establish expertise. Wishing you the best.
