Five common automation testing interview questions:
What are the advantages of test automation, and when should you automate a test?
- Test automation offers benefits like faster test execution, repeatability, increased test coverage, and early detection of defects. Automate tests that are repetitive, stable, and require frequent execution, such as regression tests. Complex and exploratory tests are usually better suited for manual testing
Explain the difference between Selenium WebDriver and Selenium IDE.
- Selenium WebDriver is a powerful tool for automating web applications and provides more flexibility and control for writing test scripts in various programming languages. On the other hand, Selenium IDE is a simpler, record-and-playback tool limited to Firefox and Chrome browsers, mainly used for quick test prototyping
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How do you handle dynamic web elements in test automation?
- Dynamic web elements are elements with changing attributes or locations on a web page. To handle them, use techniques like using unique locators (XPath, CSS selectors) that are less likely to change, waiting mechanisms (explicit or implicit waits), and handling JavaScript-generated content.
- Data-driven testing involves using different sets of test data to execute the same test scenario multiple times. It helps validate the application’s behavior with various input data. To implement it, store test data in external sources like Excel sheets, CSV files, or databases, and design test scripts to read and use this data during test execution.
How do you handle test maintenance in automation testing?
- Test maintenance is essential to keep automated tests relevant and accurate. When application changes occur, update affected test scripts promptly. Maintain a modular and reusable test framework to minimize the impact of changes on multiple tests. Regularly review and optimize test scripts for better efficiency and maintainability.
These questions cover some critical aspects of automation testing and can help gauge your proficiency and experience in using automation tools effectively during an interview. Be sure to provide clear and concise answers, and back them up with examples from your previous testing projects, if possible.