100+ QA Analyst Interview Questions and Answers

CSS selector is the fastest locator.

• CSS selector is faster than XPath

• ID and class selectors are faster than tag and attribute selectors

• Avoid using complex CSS selectors for better performance

White box testing is testing the internal structure of the system while black box testing is testing the external behavior of the system.

• White box testing is also known as clear box testing or structural testing.

• It involves testing the code, architecture, and design of the system.

• Examples include unit testing, integration testing, and code coverage analysis.

• Black box testing is also known as functional testing.

• It involves testing the system's functionality without knowledge o...read more

Use relative xpaths with functions like contains, starts-with, and ends-with to handle dynamic parameters.

• Use contains() function to match a partial value in the attribute

• Use starts-with() function to match the beginning of a value in the attribute

• Use ends-with() function to match the end of a value in the attribute

• Avoid using absolute xpaths as they are prone to breaking with dynamic parameters

Load testing is a type of performance testing that simulates real-life user load on a software application to measure its performance under normal and peak conditions.

• Load testing helps identify the maximum operating capacity of an application.

• It helps in determining whether the current infrastructure is sufficient to handle the expected user load.

• Examples of load testing tools include JMeter, LoadRunner, and Apache Bench.

A test plan is a document that outlines the scope, approach, resources, and schedule of testing activities.

• Defines the objectives and scope of testing

• Outlines the test strategy and approach

• Identifies resources and schedule for testing

• Includes test cases, test scenarios, and test data

• Describes the roles and responsibilities of team members

Test case is a set of steps to validate a specific functionality while use case is a scenario of how a user interacts with the system.

• Test case is used to validate a specific functionality of the system while use case is a scenario of how a user interacts with the system.

• Test case is written by the tester while use case is written by the business analyst or the end user.

• Test case is usually a step-by-step instruction while use case is a narrative description.

• Example of a test...read more

To handle a frustrated customer as a QA Analyst, it is important to remain calm, empathize with their concerns, actively listen, provide clear explanations, and offer solutions.

• Remain calm and composed

• Empathize with the customer's frustrations

• Actively listen to their concerns without interrupting

• Provide clear explanations and address their issues

• Offer appropriate solutions or escalate to the relevant team if necessary

I have worked on over 500 transactions in my career as a QA Analyst.

• I have experience working on various types of transactions including financial, e-commerce, and healthcare.

• I have tested transactions involving payment processing, order fulfillment, and data transfer.

• I have collaborated with developers and business analysts to ensure the accuracy and functionality of transactions.

• I have used tools like JIRA and Selenium to track and automate transaction testing.

• I have identi...read more

Test plan for small project

• Identify test objectives and scope

• Determine test environment and tools

• Create test cases and test data

• Execute tests and record results

• Report and track defects

• Perform regression testing

• Obtain sign-off from stakeholders

Use the toString() method to convert an integer to a string in JavaScript.

• Use the toString() method on the integer variable

• Pass the base as an argument to toString() if needed (e.g. 10 for decimal)

• Store the converted string in a variable for further use

To instantiate the Chrome driver, create an instance of the ChromeDriver class.

• Import the necessary libraries

• Create an instance of the ChromeDriver class

• Set the path to the ChromeDriver executable if necessary

• Maximize the browser window if required

My key strengths include attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and ability to work in a team.

• Attention to detail: I have a keen eye for identifying even the smallest of errors in software testing.

• Problem-solving skills: I am able to analyze complex problems and come up with effective solutions.

• Ability to work in a team: I am a team player and can collaborate with others to achieve common goals.

Negative testing involves testing the system with invalid inputs or unexpected actions to ensure it handles errors properly.

• Testing the system with incorrect data

• Testing boundary conditions

• Testing error handling

• Ensuring the system fails gracefully

• Examples: entering letters in a number field, entering a future date for a past date field

SDLC, STLC, and Agile model are software development methodologies used in the industry.

• SDLC stands for Software Development Life Cycle and is a process used for planning, creating, testing, and deploying software.

• STLC stands for Software Testing Life Cycle and is a process used for planning, creating, executing, and reporting on tests.

• Agile model is a software development methodology that promotes adaptive planning, evolutionary development, early delivery, and continuous im...read more

Django follows Model-View-Controller (MVC) architectural pattern.

• Django has a high-level architecture that follows the Model-View-Controller (MVC) architectural pattern.

• The Model layer represents the database schema and business logic.

• The View layer handles the presentation logic and renders the templates.

• The Controller layer acts as an intermediary between the Model and View layers.

• Django also includes a URL routing system and middleware for handling HTTP requests and respon...read more

Locators in Selenium are used to identify web elements on a web page. There are several types of locators available.

• Types of locators in Selenium include ID, Name, Class Name, Tag Name, Link Text, Partial Link Text, CSS Selector, and XPath.

• ID and Name locators are the most commonly used and are unique to each element.

• Class Name and Tag Name locators are used to identify multiple elements with the same class or tag name.

• Link Text and Partial Link Text locators are used to iden...read more

To take a screenshot in Selenium, you can use the getScreenshotAs method provided by the WebDriver interface.

• Use the getScreenshotAs method provided by the WebDriver interface to capture a screenshot

• Save the screenshot as a file using the FileUtils class in Selenium

• Handle exceptions like IOException when saving the screenshot

Testing should stop when the testing objectives have been met or when the cost of testing exceeds the benefits.

• Stop when all test cases have been executed and passed

• Stop when the testing budget has been exhausted

• Stop when the deadline for release has been reached

• Stop when the risk of continuing testing outweighs the benefits

• Stop when the software has achieved the desired level of quality

• Stop when the testing team has achieved the desired level of confidence in the software

• Sto...read more

Cross browsing testing is performed to ensure the compatibility of a website or application across different browsers and platforms.

• Identify the target browsers and platforms to be tested

• Create a test plan and test cases for each browser and platform

• Execute the test cases on different browsers and platforms

• Verify the functionality, layout, and performance of the website or application

• Report and track any issues or inconsistencies found

• Repeat the testing process for each new r...read more

A test case is a set of conditions or actions performed to verify the functionality of a software application.

• A test case includes a description of the test scenario, input data, expected results, and any preconditions or postconditions.

• It helps in identifying defects or errors in the software.

• Test cases can be written in a step-by-step format or using a test case management tool.

• Example: Test case for login functionality - Enter valid username and password, click on the logi...read more

Implemented a comprehensive QA process that includes planning, testing, reporting, and continuous improvement.

• Developed test plans and test cases based on requirements

• Performed functional, regression, and integration testing

• Reported and tracked defects using JIRA

• Collaborated with developers to resolve issues

• Conducted user acceptance testing

• Continuously reviewed and improved the QA process

Keys in Selenium can be selected using the Keys class provided by Selenium WebDriver.

• Use the Keys class to send special keys like Enter, Tab, Arrow keys, etc.

• Keys can be used for keyboard actions like pressing Enter after entering text in a field.

• Keys can also be used for keyboard shortcuts like Ctrl+A for selecting all text in a field.

Scrum meeting is a daily stand-up meeting in Agile methodology to discuss progress, challenges, and plans.

• Occurs daily in Agile development

• Team members stand up to keep the meeting short

• Each member answers three questions: What did I do yesterday? What will I do today? Any blockers?

• Helps in keeping the team aligned and focused on goals

I have experience working with multiple frameworks including Selenium, TestNG, and JUnit.

• I have used Selenium for web application testing

• TestNG for test case management and reporting

• JUnit for unit testing

• I am also familiar with BDD frameworks like Cucumber and Gherkin

Bug cycle is a process of identifying, reporting, tracking, and resolving bugs in software development.

• Bug identification

• Bug reporting

• Bug tracking

• Bug resolution

• Bug verification

Regression testing is important to ensure that changes made to the software do not negatively impact existing functionality.

• Regression testing helps to identify any defects or issues that may have been introduced during development or changes made to the software.

• It ensures that existing functionality still works as expected after changes have been made.

• Regression testing can be automated to save time and effort.

• Examples of regression testing include retesting previously fixe...read more

SQL query for left join

• Use the LEFT JOIN keyword to combine rows from two tables

• Specify the common column(s) using ON keyword

• Use SELECT statement to select the columns from both tables

Agile methodology is an iterative approach to software development that emphasizes flexibility and collaboration.

• Agile methodology values individuals and interactions over processes and tools

• It emphasizes working software over comprehensive documentation

• It involves frequent delivery of working software in short timeframes called sprints

• It encourages collaboration between developers, testers, and stakeholders

• Examples of Agile methodologies include Scrum, Kanban, and Extreme Pr...read more

Selenium has four main components: Selenium IDE, Selenium WebDriver, Selenium Grid, and Selenium RC.

• Selenium IDE: a record and playback tool for creating Selenium scripts

• Selenium WebDriver: a tool for automating web browsers

• Selenium Grid: a tool for running tests on multiple machines in parallel

• Selenium RC: a deprecated tool for automating web browsers

WebDriver is a tool used for automating web application testing.

• WebDriver is an open-source tool used for automating web browsers.

• It supports various programming languages like Java, Python, C#, etc.

• It allows testers to simulate user actions on a web page and verify the results.

• WebDriver can interact with different browsers like Chrome, Firefox, Safari, etc.

• It can be used for testing web applications on different platforms like Windows, Mac, Linux, etc.

Bug leakage refers to bugs that are not identified during testing and are released to production.

• Bug leakage occurs when bugs are missed during testing and are found by users after the software is released.

• It can happen due to inadequate test coverage, lack of proper testing techniques, or miscommunication between teams.

• Examples include critical bugs in a mobile app that were not caught during testing and are discovered by users after the app is live.

Bug release refers to the process of making a software bug fix available to users.

• Bug release involves identifying and fixing a software bug

• Testing the fix to ensure it resolves the issue

• Deploying the fix to production for users to access

• Communicating the bug release to users and stakeholders

A test case is a set of conditions or variables under which a tester will determine whether a system under test satisfies requirements or works correctly.

• Test cases are written based on requirements or user stories

• Each test case includes a set of inputs, expected outputs, and execution steps

• Test cases are used to validate the functionality of a system

• Test cases can be automated or executed manually

Waterfall SDLC is a linear and sequential software development process.

• It follows a strict top-down approach.

• Each phase must be completed before moving to the next one.

• Requirements are gathered and documented at the beginning.

• Testing is done at the end of the development cycle.

• Changes are difficult to incorporate once a phase is completed.

Smoke testing is a preliminary testing to check if the basic functionalities of a software application are working fine.

• Smoke testing is a subset of regression testing.

• It is performed to ensure that critical functionalities are working before proceeding with further testing.

• Smoke tests are usually quick and do not involve detailed testing.

• Example: Checking if the login functionality of a website is working after a new build.

Agile process is a software development methodology that emphasizes flexibility, collaboration, and iterative development.

• Agile process involves breaking down projects into small increments called sprints

• It focuses on continuous collaboration between cross-functional teams

• Requirements and solutions evolve through the collaborative effort of self-organizing teams

• Feedback is gathered regularly to make necessary adjustments

• Popular Agile frameworks include Scrum, Kanban, and XP

Test cases for coffee vending machine

• Verify that the machine dispenses the correct type of coffee selected

• Test if the machine accepts different payment methods (cash, card, etc.)

• Check if the machine displays the correct prices for each type of coffee

• Ensure that the machine dispenses the correct amount of sugar and cream as per user selection

• Test if the machine provides a receipt after each transaction

Program to reverse a string using array of characters

• Create a character array from the input string

• Use two pointers to swap characters from start and end of the array

• Continue swapping until the pointers meet in the middle

Program to generate a sequence of strings in an array

• Use a loop to generate and store strings in an array

• Consider using a specific pattern or logic to generate the strings

• Ensure the array contains only strings

My test strategy involves a combination of manual and automated testing, prioritizing high-risk areas, and continuous communication with the development team.

• I use a mix of manual and automated testing to ensure comprehensive coverage

• I prioritize testing in high-risk areas to mitigate potential issues

• I maintain continuous communication with the development team to ensure alignment and quick resolution of issues

• I regularly review and update the test strategy to adapt to changi...read more

Bind is the present tense form of the verb, while bound is the past tense and past participle form.

• Bind is used when referring to the act of tying or fastening something together.

• Bound is used when referring to the state of being tied or fastened.

• Example: She binds the books together. The books are bound tightly.

The pip framework in Python is a package management system used to install and manage software packages written in Python.

• Pip is the standard package manager for Python.

• It allows you to easily install, upgrade, and remove Python packages.

• You can use pip to install packages from the Python Package Index (PyPI) or from local directories.

• Examples: 'pip install requests', 'pip uninstall numpy'

JUnit is a unit testing framework for Java, while TestNG is a testing framework that supports different types of testing.

• JUnit is mainly used for unit testing, while TestNG supports unit, functional, integration, and end-to-end testing.

• TestNG provides more features like parameterization, grouping, and dependency testing compared to JUnit.

• TestNG allows parallel execution of test cases, which can improve testing efficiency.

• JUnit is more widely used and has better integration wi...read more

Debugging is the process of identifying and fixing errors or bugs in software code.

• Debugging involves tracing and isolating the root cause of a problem in the code.

• Common debugging techniques include using print statements, breakpoints, and debugging tools.

• Debugging helps ensure that the software functions correctly and meets the desired requirements.

A test plan is a document that outlines the testing strategy, objectives, scope, and resources for a software testing project.

• Defines the scope and objectives of testing

• Outlines the testing approach and methodology

• Identifies the resources required for testing

• Specifies the test environment and test data

• Includes test schedules and timelines

• Provides a basis for test reporting and metrics

Test data can be read from Excel using libraries like Apache POI or OpenPyXL.

• Use libraries like Apache POI or OpenPyXL to read data from Excel files

• Identify the sheet and cell from which data needs to be read

• Handle different data types like strings, numbers, dates, etc.

• Perform validations on the data read from Excel

QA testing lifecycle involves planning, designing, executing, and reporting on tests to ensure software quality.

• Planning phase involves defining test objectives, scope, and test strategy.

• Design phase involves creating test cases and test scenarios.

• Execution phase involves running tests and reporting defects.

• Reporting phase involves analyzing test results and generating reports.

• Continuous improvement phase involves identifying areas for improvement and implementing changes.

• Exa...read more