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Using Checklists in Testing

Using Checklists in Testing

In this article, we will explain what checklists in testing are, what they are used for, how they differ from test cases, and we will also go through an example of creating a checklist.


What is a checklist in testing?

A checklist is a list of checks that serve as a reminder of the elements that need to be verified. A simple example of a checklist would be a grocery list we make before going to the store.


Why are checklists needed?

1. Preparation for testing functionality before its implementation.

First, documentation is created, based on which developers begin implementing certain functionality. Testers, in turn, can already prepare a checklist for subsequent testing. During the creation of a checklist, they may notice contradictions in the documentation and report them. This way, by the time the development of the feature is completed, testers will already have an understanding of what the new feature represents. In addition, they will have a prepared set of checks for its testing, which saves significant time.
Often, documentation changes during the development process, so the checklist may require some adjustments. Nevertheless, this is usually faster than creating a checklist from scratch.


2. Minimizing missed checks.

When test points are recorded in a list rather than memorized, the likelihood of missing important aspects decreases. This approach makes it easier to spot missing elements during testing. Moreover, checklists can be shared with colleagues. For example, a developer responsible for implementing functionality can review the checklist to identify possible gaps. If a tester is new to a project, it’s useful to involve a more experienced colleague to evaluate whether the checklist provides sufficient coverage of functionality.


3. For reporting.

Suppose we created a checklist and started executing it. To make our work more transparent, it’s a good idea to share a link to the checklist with a stakeholder. Now they can see in real-time what has already been tested and whether there are any errors or difficulties. At Sunstrike, for example, we usually indicate the status and add comments next to each check.


4. For regression testing.

When new functionality is introduced, testers create a checklist that can later be adapted for regression testing of the application. During regression testing, unlike initial feature testing, the level of detail is usually reduced, as the focus shifts to verifying the stability and interaction of new features with existing ones. As a result, a regression test typically consists of a set of checklists, each responsible for a particular aspect or functionality, combined into one comprehensive checklist for the entire application.


What are the advantages and disadvantages of checklists compared to test cases?

Advantages:


• Speed of creation.

Checklists are much simpler and faster to create than test cases. For example, in a checklist, a test point might be written as “Google login,” while in a test case it would be described in detail: “1. Open the main page, 2. Click the ‘Sign in’ button, 3. Choose Google login,” and so on. Due to their generalized format, checklists allow testers to start testing faster and move on to the next tasks.

• Easier maintenance.

For instance, if part of the functionality changes, updating a checklist requires only removing or adding a few items. With test cases, however, you must not only update the title of the case but also review and possibly update all the steps inside it. Once again, checklists save a lot of time compared to test cases.

• Flexibility in use across platforms.

Checklists can easily be created and executed in tools like Google Sheets, which are free and offer convenient access settings, formula support, and more. While test cases can technically also be written and executed in spreadsheets, it is very inconvenient. For convenient writing and execution of test cases, specialized Test Case Management (TCM) tools such as TestRail are needed, which are usually not free.


Disadvantages:


• Difficulty for new employees.

The main drawback of even well-written checklists is that they can be less clear to new employees compared to test cases. A beginner can start working immediately with test cases, while effective use of checklists requires some knowledge of the project.


For example, if you need to test an interface on an unusual screen resolution that the team does not have devices for, and you have to involve a colleague from another department, it’s better to prepare detailed test cases rather than a checklist. In projects with high employee turnover, test cases may also be a more preferable tool.

How to create checklists?

Checklists are created based on documentation and real use of functionality, with the help of test design techniques. The simplest way to create a checklist is to move from general to specific, by blocks. That is, first define a functional entity, then break it down into smaller parts, and then describe the specific actions.


let’s look at other important details in a checklist:


• Depth of coverage.

Here is an example of a shallow coverage checklist for testing the functionality of “Attaching a file to a message”:


With such a checklist, a tester immediately comes up with multiple test scenarios that also need verification. Let’s expand them with an example of deeper coverage.


When testing a feature for the first time, we use deep (or full) coverage. For regression testing, however, medium or minimal coverage is usually sufficient.


• Additional fields.

It is convenient when there is a “Status” field next to each check. The most common statuses we use are: Not Tested, Passed, Failed, Skipped. A “Comment” field is also very useful — for example, you can attach a bug link directly or explain why a check was skipped.

Conclusion

Mastering the skill of creating and using checklists is an integral part of every tester’s professional toolkit. In skilled hands, checklists become a flexible instrument that can be adapted to any requirements and project specifics. They can be effectively used both in team collaboration and individually, providing significant support in the testing process.

Kallipoleos 3, office 102, 1055 Nicosia, Cyprus
Sun Strike Gaming Ltd.

© «SunStrike Studios» 2016-2025  

Kallipoleos 3, office 102, 1055 Nicosia, Cyprus
Sun Strike Gaming Ltd.

«SunStrike Studios» © 2016-2025 

Kallipoleos 3, office 102, 1055 Nicosia, Cyprus
Sun Strike Gaming Ltd.

© «SunStrike Studios» 2016-2025