Test

A "test" refers to the process of evaluating and verifying that a software product or application performs its intended functions correctly.

(In the context of the word "test" we can use this glossary entry to explore nouns and verbs "to test', "testing", "test", "a test" etc)

Put extremely simply, a test to me is an experiment; a way of conducting research. I see a lot of cross-over with, and ideas we can draw from, the area of science. I don’t think we need to get super specific about what a test is, because the possibilities are so broad. I think that’s a good thing, and one of the fun things about testing.

Tests must provide fast, meaningful, and reliable feedback on quality and business risks. These are IMO the basic quality attributes of “good” tests.

Worth to mention are also the FIRST principles:

Those principles contribute to the above mentioned attributes.

A test that is not designed to reveal a bug is a waste of time. — Cem Kaner

Good tests and bad tests do not really exist. It’s up to us as testers to create quality tests and determine what are the most suitable tests to discover information about specific risks. We can do this by questioning and discussing ideas with our teams. Additionally by discovering risks, forming test ideas around those risks, and being observant when executing them. Not every test will be of the same quality, or be structured in the same way, so you need to remain vigilant. It’s up to us, as we test, to question what we have done and what we have learned, to see if assumptions were made or if details were missed. We can always learn and improve to deliver better testing.

Testing isn’t just about finding bugs.
Testing isn't just about verifying requirements.

It’s about revealing the truth—the good, the bad, and the ugly.

The role of a great tester is to uncover and share information with decision-makers so they can make informed decisions. Sometimes, that means releasing software that’s not 100% polished.

Testing is the activity we use to gather information.

Good tests ask great questions.