Test Case Checklist

A Test Case Checklist is a structured list of key points or best practices used by testers to ensure that test cases are complete, clear, and effective before they are executed.

Think of it like a quality control list for your test case design — it helps ensure no important aspect is missed and that the test cases are consistent across the project.

Sample

Identification & Tracking

• Test case has a unique ID.

• Linked to corresponding requirement/user story.

Clarity

• Clearly stated objective. A description of the test objective or condition has been clearly stated for each test case. This description should be one or two sentences at most, but more descriptive than just the name of the test case.

• Easy to understand by anyone (no jargon unless necessary).

• Uses consistent terminology.

• All test case names and/or IDs are consistent with the test work product naming conventions.

 

Test Case Structure

• Includes Title, Description, Preconditions, Test Steps, Expected Result, and Postconditions.

• Proper formatting for easy reading.

• Each test case must be a standalone scenario and should not reference other test cases in the test case steps.

• Each test case step states the expected result and method of evaluating the result.

Test Coverage

• Covers positive and negative scenarios. For each requirement for test, at least two test cases have been identified. One test case, representing an expected condition, is developed to verify the correct or expected behavior (positive test). A second test case, representing an unacceptable, abnormal, or unexpected condition, is developed to verify the requirement for test does not execute in an unexpected manner (negative test). Typically, for each requirement for test there will be at least one positive test case and many negative test cases.

• Includes boundary values and edge cases.

• Accounts for error handling and special conditions.

Test Data

• All required test data is clearly mentioned.

• Data is realistic and relevant.

• Test cases have been identified to execute all product requirement behaviors in the software system. They should include (as appropriate)
  • function
  • data validation
  • business rules implementation
  • target-of-test workflow or control
  • dataflow object state performance (including workload, configuration, and stress)
  • security and accessibility
  • compliance

Review & Approval

• Reviewed by peers or a lead tester.

• Approved before execution.

Purpose of a Test Case Checklist

• To maintain quality and completeness of test cases.
• To ensure clarity and reusability for other testers.
• To reduce defects due to missing or unclear tests.
• To maintain consistency across the team.