Test Scenarios and Test Cases

Learning objectives#

• Distinguish scenarios from test cases
• Write a complete test case
• Cover positive and negative paths
• Keep cases maintainable

Explanation#

A test scenario is a one-line “what to test”: “Verify login with valid credentials.”

A test case is the detailed “how”: ID, title, preconditions, steps, test data, expected result, actual result, status and priority.

Write positive cases (valid input works) and negative cases (invalid input is handled gracefully).

Each case checks one thing, with expected results that leave no room for interpretation.

Code example: Login test cases#

1Scenario: Verify user login
2

3TC-LOGIN-01  Login with valid email and password                 Priority: High
4  Pre:  User asha@example.com exists and is active
5  Steps: 1. Open /login  2. Enter email  3. Enter password Passw0rd!  4. Click Sign in
6  Expected: Dashboard opens; header shows "Namaste, Asha"
7

8TC-LOGIN-02  Login with wrong password                           Priority: High
9  Steps: as TC-01 with password wrongpass
10  Expected: Stays on /login; message "Email or password is incorrect"; password field cleared
11

12TC-LOGIN-03  Login with empty fields                              Priority: Medium
13  Expected: Both fields show "This field is required"; no request sent
14

15TC-LOGIN-04  Account locks after 5 failed attempts               Priority: High
16  Expected: 6th attempt shows "Account locked for 15 minutes"

Four clear cases cover the main positive, negative and security behaviour of login.

This example is illustrative. Copy or download it and run it in your own environment; the expected output is shown above.

Step-by-step explanation#

1. Start with the scenario.
2. Add preconditions and exact test data.
3. Write numbered, unambiguous steps.
4. State a precise expected result.

Real-world use case#

Common mistakes#

Best practices#

• One objective per case
• Include negative and edge cases
• Use realistic test data
• Review cases with developers and BAs

Remember this#

Practice exercise#

1TC-PHONE-03 Phone number with 9 digits shows "Enter a 10-digit mobile number"

Mini quiz#

Want more? Practise all Manual Testing MCQs · Manual Testing interview questions

Related topics#

My notes#

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