In Manual Testing , Testers manually execute test cases without using any automation tools. Manual testing is the most primitive of all testing types and helps find bugs in the software system.
Any new application must be manually tested before its testing can be automated. Manual testing requires more effort, but is necessary to check automation feasibility.
Manual Testing does not require knowledge of any testing tool. One of the Software Testing Fundamental is "100% Automation is not possible". This makes Manual Testing imperative.
Goal of Manual Testing
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The goal of Manual Testing is to ensure that the application is error free and it is working in conformance to the specified functional requirements. Test Suites or cases ,are designed during the testing phase and should have 100% test coverage.
It also makes sure that reported defects are fixed by developers and re-testing has been performed by testers on the fixed defects. Basically, this testing checks the quality of the system and delivers bug-free product to the customer.
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Manual Testing types:
Below given diagram depicts Manual Testing Types. In fact any type of software testing type can be executed both manually as well using an automation tool.
Myths of Manual Testing
Following are few common myths and facts related to testing:
Myth: Anyone can do manual testing
Fact: Testing requires many skill sets
Myth: Testing ensures 100% defect free product
Fact: Testing attempts to find as many defects as possible. Identifying all possible defects is impossible.
Myth: Automated testing is more powerful than manual testing
Fact: 100% test automation cannot be done. Manual Testing is also essential.
Myth: Testing is easy
Fact: Testing can be extremely challenging .Testing an application for possible use cases with minimum test cases requires high analytical skills.
Comparison of Manual and Automated Testing
Automation Testing is use of tools to execute test cases whereas manual testing requires human intervention for test execution.
Automation Testing saves time, cost and manpower. Once recorded, it's easier to run an automated test suite when compared to manual testing which will require skilled labor.
Any type of application can be tested manually but automated testing is recommended only for stable systems and is mostly used for regression testing. Also, certain testing types like ad-hoc and monkey testing are more suited for manual execution.
Manual testing can be become repetitive and boring. On the contrary, the boring part of executing same test cases time and again, is handled by automation software in automation testing.
Conclusion
Manual testing is an activity where the tester needs to be very patient, creative & open minded.They need to think and act with an End User perspective.