80+ Senior Software Test Engineer Interview Questions and Answers

Answering questions related to software testing concepts and tools.

• Retest testing is done to ensure that the defects found in the previous testing cycle have been fixed.

• Regression testing is done to ensure that the changes made to the software do not have any adverse effects on the existing functionality.

• Authentication is the process of verifying the identity of a user, while authorization is the process of granting access to specific resources or functionalities based on the...read more

To inspect a drop-down element in Selenium, use the 'Select' class to interact with it.

• Use the 'Select' class from Selenium's WebDriver library to interact with drop-down elements

• Identify the drop-down element using its locator (id, name, class, etc.)

• Instantiate a new Select object by passing the drop-down element as a parameter

• Use Select object methods like selectByVisibleText(), selectByValue(), selectByIndex() to interact with the drop-down

LINQ is used to query data from different data sources in C#, purpose is to simplify data querying, validate database data against UI using LINQ queries.

• LINQ is used in C# to query data from different data sources like collections, databases, XML, etc.

• Purpose of LINQ is to simplify data querying by providing a uniform way to query different types of data sources.

• To validate database data against the user interface, LINQ queries can be used to retrieve data from the database a...read more

I have extensively used OOPs concepts in my current project.

• I have used inheritance to create a base class for all test cases.

• I have used polymorphism to create different test cases using the same base class.

• I have used encapsulation to hide the implementation details of the test cases.

• I have used abstraction to create interfaces for the test cases.

• I have used SOLID principles to ensure the code is maintainable and extensible.

I prioritize tasks based on impact and urgency, communicate with stakeholders, and seek consensus to resolve conflicts.

• Prioritize tasks based on impact and urgency

• Communicate with stakeholders to understand their perspectives

• Seek consensus by discussing conflicting priorities with team members

• Use data and metrics to support decision-making

• Stay flexible and adapt to changing priorities

OOP concepts in my project include encapsulation, inheritance, and polymorphism.

• Encapsulation: Data hiding and bundling of data with methods to operate on that data.

• Inheritance: Ability to create new classes based on existing classes, promoting code reusability.

• Polymorphism: Ability for objects of different classes to respond to the same method call.

• Example: Using inheritance to create a base class 'Shape' with subclasses 'Circle' and 'Rectangle'.

In Gherkin language, 'Given' sets up the initial context, 'When' describes the action taken, and 'Then' specifies the expected outcome.

• Given: Describes the initial state or precondition of the scenario

• When: Represents the action or event that occurs

• Then: Defines the expected outcome or result after the action is taken

• Example: Given a user is logged in, When they click on the 'Logout' button, Then they should be logged out successfully

POM file includes information about project dependencies, build settings, and plugins in Maven projects.

• Project dependencies

• Build settings

• Plugins

A scenario is a single test case while a scenario outline is a template for multiple similar test cases with different inputs.

• Scenario is a single test case with specific inputs and expected outcomes

• Scenario outline is a template for multiple test cases with placeholders for inputs

• In scenario outline, examples table is used to provide different input values for each test case

Test coverage is the measure of how much of the code is tested, while a test matrix is a document that maps test cases to requirements.

• Test coverage measures the extent to which the source code of a program is executed during testing.

• A test matrix is a document that maps test cases to requirements, helping to ensure that all requirements are covered by test cases.

• Test coverage can be used to determine the effectiveness of a test matrix in covering all aspects of the software....read more

Clarify requirements with stakeholders and document assumptions.

• Schedule a meeting with stakeholders to discuss the unclear requirements.

• Document assumptions made based on unclear requirements.

• Create test cases based on assumptions and seek clarification from stakeholders.

• Collaborate with development team to ensure requirements are met.

• Track changes to requirements and update test cases accordingly.

Yes, it is important to do WCAG even if the website is section 508 compliant.

• Section 508 compliance focuses on accessibility for people with disabilities in the US federal government

• WCAG is a more comprehensive set of guidelines for web accessibility

• WCAG covers a wider range of disabilities and is recognized internationally

• Meeting both Section 508 and WCAG guidelines ensures maximum accessibility for all users

Yes, I have experience managing cookies and caches in automation.

• Yes, I have written automation scripts to handle cookies by setting, getting, and deleting them.

• I have also managed browser caches in automation to ensure accurate testing results.

• Utilized tools like Selenium WebDriver to interact with cookies and caches during test execution.

WebDriver is a tool for automating web application testing, while ChromeDriver is a specific implementation for controlling Chrome browser.

• WebDriver is a generic tool that supports multiple browsers, while ChromeDriver is specifically for Chrome browser.

• WebDriver provides a common API for interacting with different browsers, while ChromeDriver is used to control Chrome browser instances.

• WebDriver can be used with different browsers like Firefox, Safari, etc., while ChromeDriv...read more

Selenium architecture allows for automation testing of web applications using C# bindings.

• Selenium WebDriver interacts with web browsers to automate testing

• C# bindings provide a way to write test scripts in C# language

• Selenium Grid allows for parallel testing on multiple machines

• Selenium IDE for recording and playback of test scripts

final is a keyword used to restrict inheritance, finally is a block used in exception handling, and finalize is a method used for cleanup.

• final is a keyword in Java used to restrict inheritance, meaning a class cannot be subclassed.

• finally is a block used in exception handling to ensure a piece of code is always executed, whether an exception is thrown or not.

• finalize is a method in Java used for cleanup operations before an object is garbage collected.

I will document the bug by providing detailed steps to reproduce, screenshots, and any other relevant information.

• Document the bug by providing detailed steps to reproduce

• Include screenshots or videos if applicable

• Provide any relevant logs or error messages

• Assign priority and severity to the bug

I apply a combination of manual and automated testing methods, utilize test management tools, collaborate with developers, and continuously learn new testing techniques.

• Utilize a combination of manual and automated testing methods to ensure comprehensive test coverage

• Use test management tools such as Jira or TestRail to organize test cases and track defects

• Collaborate closely with developers to understand the code changes and ensure effective testing

• Continuously learn new tes...read more

Postman is a popular API testing tool that allows testers to automate testing of APIs and monitor responses.

• Postman allows testers to create and run automated tests for APIs

• It provides a user-friendly interface for sending requests, validating responses, and organizing test suites

• Postman can be integrated with CI/CD pipelines for continuous testing and monitoring

• It supports various testing methods such as unit testing, integration testing, and end-to-end testing

• Postman can be...read more

Feature file linking is the process of connecting feature files with step definition files in BDD testing.

• Feature files contain scenarios written in Gherkin language

• Step definition files contain the actual code implementation for the steps in feature files

• Linking is done by specifying the path to the step definition file in the feature file

• This allows the automation tool to execute the steps defined in the feature file

Steps to debug errors in APIs and microservices

• Identify the source of the error by checking logs and monitoring tools

• Reproduce the error by sending the same request that caused it

• Use debugging tools like Postman, cURL, or browser developer tools to inspect requests and responses

• Check the code for any logical errors or misconfigurations

• Collaborate with developers to understand the code flow and potential issues

• Write unit tests to isolate the problem and verify fixes

Dynamic elements on a webpage are managed using various techniques like waiting for element visibility, using explicit waits, and handling AJAX calls.

• Use explicit waits to wait for the element to be present, visible, clickable, etc.

• Use dynamic locators like XPath, CSS selectors, or relative locators to locate elements that change dynamically.

• Handle AJAX calls by waiting for the call to complete before interacting with the element.

• Use frameworks like Selenium WebDriver to inte...read more

I have contributed to the framework by designing and implementing new test cases, improving existing test scripts, and enhancing automation capabilities.

• Designed and implemented new test cases to cover additional functionalities

• Improved existing test scripts for better efficiency and coverage

• Enhanced automation capabilities by integrating new tools and technologies

• Collaborated with developers to identify and resolve issues in the framework

A framework is a structured set of guidelines, libraries, and tools used to develop and test software applications.

• A framework provides a foundation for building software applications by defining the overall structure and design patterns.

• It includes reusable components, libraries, and utilities that help in automating tasks and improving efficiency.

• Frameworks can be categorized into different types such as testing frameworks, web application frameworks, and mobile app framewo...read more

Compliance can be framed by creating a clear and concise policy document and communicating it effectively to all stakeholders.

• Create a policy document outlining the compliance requirements

• Ensure the policy document is easily accessible to all stakeholders

• Communicate the policy document effectively to all stakeholders

• Provide training to stakeholders on the compliance requirements

• Regularly review and update the policy document as needed

There are 13 guidelines to be achieved for WCAG compliance.

• WCAG 2.1 has 13 guidelines that are organized under 4 principles: Perceivable, Operable, Understandable, and Robust.

• Each guideline has success criteria that are testable and have different levels of conformance: A, AA, and AAA.

• Examples of guidelines include providing alternative text for images, ensuring keyboard accessibility, and using clear and simple language.

• WCAG compliance is important for ensuring that websites...read more

var is function-scoped and let is block-scoped.

• var declarations are hoisted to the top of their scope

• let declarations are not hoisted

• var can be redeclared in the same scope

• let cannot be redeclared in the same scope

• var can be declared without initialization

• let must be initialized before use

2.1 is an updated version of 2.0 with added features and improvements.

• 2.1 has additional features and bug fixes compared to 2.0

• 2.1 may have better performance than 2.0

• 2.1 may require different hardware or software requirements than 2.0

• 2.1 may have different compatibility with other software or systems than 2.0

I will prepare test cases by analyzing the user story, identifying test scenarios, writing test cases, and reviewing them.

• Understand the user story and its acceptance criteria

• Identify different test scenarios based on the user story

• Write test cases covering positive and negative scenarios

• Review and validate the test cases with stakeholders

Good requirements are clear, concise, and measurable while bad requirements are ambiguous, incomplete, and untestable.

• Good requirements are specific and leave no room for interpretation

• Good requirements are achievable and realistic

• Bad requirements are vague and open to interpretation

• Bad requirements are unrealistic or impossible to achieve

• Good requirements are testable and verifiable

• Bad requirements are untestable or difficult to verify

Data-driven testing in SoapUI involves creating data sources, defining test cases, and executing tests with different data sets.

• Create a data source containing test data (e.g. Excel file, database query)

• Define test cases in SoapUI and link them to the data source

• Execute tests with different data sets to validate functionality

• View test results and analyze any failures for each data set

Client side testing is testing the application on the client side, while server side testing is testing the application on the server side.

• Client side testing involves testing the user interface, functionality, and performance of the application on the client side.

• Server side testing involves testing the server components, databases, and APIs of the application on the server side.

• Examples of client side testing include browser compatibility testing, usability testing, and sec...read more

Yes, I have worked in an agile environment before.

• I have experience working in Scrum and Kanban methodologies

• I have participated in daily stand-up meetings, sprint planning, and retrospectives

• I have collaborated closely with developers, product owners, and other team members to deliver high-quality software

Manual testing involves executing test cases manually without using any automation tools. SQL testing involves verifying data integrity in databases. API testing involves testing the functionality of APIs. Handling team and issues involves managing team members and resolving any problems that arise.

• Manual testing involves creating test cases, executing them, and documenting results.

• SQL testing involves writing and executing queries to verify data in databases.

• API testing invo...read more

Accessibility testing is crucial for ensuring equal access to digital content for all users.

• Accessibility testing involves evaluating the usability of digital content for users with disabilities.

• It includes testing for screen readers, keyboard-only navigation, color contrast, and other accessibility features.

• Accessibility testing is important for compliance with accessibility standards and regulations.

• It helps to ensure that all users, regardless of their abilities, can acces...read more

Steps in implementing requirement from business to development involve analysis, design, implementation, testing, and deployment.

• Analyze the business requirement to understand the scope and impact on the system

• Design a solution that meets the business requirement and aligns with the existing system architecture

• Implement the solution by writing code and integrating it with other components

• Test the implemented solution to ensure it meets the business requirement and is free of ...read more

Defect life cycle is the process of identifying, reporting, fixing, retesting, and closing defects in software development.

• Defect identification: Defects are identified through testing or user feedback.

• Defect reporting: Defects are reported in a defect tracking system with details like severity and priority.

• Defect fixing: Developers fix the reported defects based on the information provided.

• Defect retesting: Testers verify that the fixed defects are resolved.

• Defect closing: O...read more

Scalability and flexibility are key aspects of cloud projects.

• Scalability allows for easy expansion or reduction of resources based on demand.

• Flexibility enables customization and adaptation to changing requirements.

• Cost-effectiveness is another important factor, as cloud projects often offer pay-as-you-go pricing models.

• Security and compliance measures must be carefully considered and implemented in cloud projects.

• Examples: AWS, Azure, Google Cloud

I selected the testing field because I enjoy finding bugs and ensuring software quality.

• I have a keen eye for detail and enjoy problem-solving.

• I like the challenge of breaking down complex systems to find issues.

• I find satisfaction in ensuring that software meets high quality standards.

• I enjoy working collaboratively with developers to improve software quality.

• I have a passion for technology and enjoy staying up-to-date with the latest trends in testing methodologies.

Function testing is testing the functionality of a software application. API testing is testing the application programming interface. Automation testing is using tools to automate testing processes.

• Function testing ensures that the software functions as expected based on the requirements.

• API testing involves testing the APIs to ensure they meet the requirements and function correctly.

• Automation testing uses tools to automate test cases, making the testing process more effici...read more

Our current project involves testing a web-based application using Agile methodology.

• We follow Agile methodology for testing

• Our project is a web-based application

• We use various testing tools such as Selenium, JMeter, and Postman

• We have a well-defined testing process in place

• We work closely with the development team to ensure timely delivery of quality software

Some automation challenges I have faced include handling dynamic elements, synchronization issues, and maintaining test scripts.

• Handling dynamic elements on the webpage that change frequently

• Synchronization issues between test scripts and application response times

• Maintaining test scripts as the application evolves and changes

• Dealing with different environments and configurations for testing

Functional testing is a type of software testing that verifies that each function of the software operates in conformance with the requirement specification.

• Unit Testing: Testing individual units or components of the software.

• Integration Testing: Testing the integration of different components or modules.

• System Testing: Testing the entire system as a whole.

• Acceptance Testing: Testing to ensure the software meets the acceptance criteria.

• Regression Testing: Testing to ensure th...read more

Use a programming language like Python to write data to an Excel file.

• Use a library like openpyxl in Python to create and write data to an Excel file.

• Open the Excel file using the library and write data to specific cells.

• Save the Excel file after writing the data.

The latest WCAG level is WCAG 2.2

• WCAG 2.2 is the latest version of the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines

• It includes new success criteria for mobile accessibility and cognitive disabilities

• WCAG 2.2 is not yet an official recommendation, but is in draft status

A test scenario is a detailed description of a specific test case or situation to be tested.

• Test scenario outlines the steps to be taken, data inputs, and expected outcomes.

• It helps in ensuring complete test coverage and identifying potential issues.

• Example: Test scenario for login functionality - enter valid username and password, click login button, verify successful login.

GRE and IPSEC are both protocols used for secure communication over networks, but they have different purposes and implementations.

• GRE (Generic Routing Encapsulation) is a tunneling protocol used to encapsulate a wide variety of network layer protocols inside virtual point-to-point links. It does not provide encryption or authentication.

• IPSEC (Internet Protocol Security) is a suite of protocols used to secure Internet Protocol (IP) communications by authenticating and encrypt...read more