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Software Testing Terminology

Are you new to software testing or looking to refresh your knowledge of the key terminologies? This comprehensive guide will provide you with an overview of 21 essential software testing terms and their definitions. From bugs and defects to test plans and automation, you'll learn everything you need to know to effectively communicate and execute testing activities on your next software project.

Here are the list of testing terminology-

  • Test scenario: A high-level description of a test case or group of test cases.

  • Test case: A set of steps and expected results used to test a specific feature or functionality.

  • Test plan: A document that outlines the testing approach, objectives, scope, and deliverables.

  • Test suite: A collection of related test cases.

  • Test report: A document that summarizes the testing results, including any defects found.


  • Test script: A set of instructions used to execute a test case.

  • Test execution: The process of running the test cases and recording the results.

  • Test data: The inputs used to execute test cases.


  • Test log - A record of test execution activities and results.about the quality of the software system.

  • Test result - The outcome of a test case or a group of test cases.requirement of a software system.

  • Test strategy - A high-level plan for how testing will be carried out on a software project.

  • Test target - The software component or system that is the subject of testing.

  • Test tool - A software application or utility that is used to facilitate or automate testing activities.


  • Severity: The degree of impact a defect has on the software's functionality.

  • Priority: The level of importance assigned to a defect based on its severity and other factors.


  • Traceability: The ability to trace requirements to test cases and defects.

  • Test environment: The hardware, software, and network setup used to conduct testing.

  • Test coverage: The percentage of requirements or code covered by the test cases.


  • Bug - An error in a software application that causes it to behave in an unintended manner.

  • Defect: An issue or bug identified during testing that needs to be fixed.

  • Error- A mistake made by a person while developing or using a software application that results in an incorrect output.

  • Fault - A defect in a software system that may or may not cause an error.

  • Failure - The inability of a software system to perform its intended function according to its specification.


  • Test automation - The process of using software tools to execute tests and compare actual results with expected results.

The above terminology consists of 21 essential software testing terms used in the industry. These terminologies include Bug, Defect, Error, Fault, Failure, Test Case, Test Suite, Test Plan, Test Script, Test Automation, Test Data, Test Coverage, Test Environment, Test Execution, Test Log, Test Report, Test Result, Test Scenario, Test Strategy, Test Target, and Test Tool. Understanding these terms is critical for effective communication and execution of testing activities on software projects. By learning these terminologies, software testers can gain a better understanding of the key concepts involved in software testing and improve the quality of the software system under test.