What is equivalence partitioning?
Theme: Testing Techniques Role: Qa Engineer/Test Engineer Function: Technology
Interview Question for QA Engineer/Test Engineer: See sample answers, motivations & red flags for this common interview question. About QA Engineer/Test Engineer: Ensure software quality through testing and quality assurance. This role falls within the Technology function of a firm. See other interview questions & further information for this role here
Sample Answer
Example response for question delving into Testing Techniques with the key points that need to be covered in an effective response. Customize this to your own experience with concrete examples and evidence
- Definition: Equivalence partitioning is a black box testing technique used to divide the input data into groups or partitions that are expected to exhibit similar behavior
- Purpose: The main purpose of equivalence partitioning is to reduce the number of test cases while still ensuring adequate test coverage
- Principles: Equivalence partitioning is based on the following principles: 1) Inputs within the same partition should be treated equivalently, 2) Inputs from different partitions should be treated differently, and 3) Each partition should be tested at least once
- Process: The process of equivalence partitioning involves the following steps: 1) Identify the input conditions or variables, 2) Divide the input values into partitions based on their behavior or characteristics, 3) Select representative test cases from each partition, and 4) Execute the selected test cases
- Advantages: Equivalence partitioning offers several advantages, including: 1) Reduced number of test cases, saving time and effort, 2) Increased test coverage by selecting representative test cases from each partition, and 3) Early detection of defects by focusing on critical input values
- Limitations: There are some limitations to equivalence partitioning, such as: 1) It may not be suitable for complex systems with interdependent inputs, 2) It assumes that all inputs within a partition will have the same behavior, which may not always be true, and 3) It does not consider the order or sequence of inputs
- Example: For example, if testing a login form, we can divide the input values into partitions like valid usernames, invalid usernames, valid passwords, and invalid passwords. We would then select representative test cases from each partition, such as a valid username with a valid password, an invalid username with a valid password, etc
Underlying Motivations
What the Interviewer is trying to find out about you and your experiences through this question
- Knowledge of testing techniques: Assessing if the candidate is familiar with common testing techniques such as equivalence partitioning
- Problem-solving skills: Evaluating the candidate's ability to identify and categorize test cases based on equivalence partitioning
- Attention to detail: Determining if the candidate understands the importance of dividing input data into meaningful partitions for effective testing
Potential Minefields
How to avoid some common minefields when answering this question in order to not raise any red flags
- Lack of understanding: Providing a vague or incorrect definition of equivalence partitioning
- Inability to provide examples: Not being able to give clear examples of how equivalence partitioning can be applied in testing scenarios
- Lack of depth: Failing to explain the benefits and limitations of equivalence partitioning
- Overcomplicating the explanation: Using technical jargon or complex language that the interviewer may not understand
- Lack of practical application: Not being able to relate equivalence partitioning to real-life testing scenarios or projects
- Inconsistency in answers: Providing conflicting or contradictory information about equivalence partitioning during the interview