Manual Testing Guide for Beginners

Software testing is one of the most essential steps on the way to the project release. There are two primary ways to test an app. One way is done by a program, which is known as automatic testing. Another way is manual software testing, meaning that it is processed by a human. While each method has its advantages and disadvantages, their goal is the same: to ensure the quality of the software.

Ready to start a tester career? Well, that’s a great idea! You will find useful to check out this article first – it gives an insight into the basics of manual testing not overloading you with unknown and hard technical stuff. So let’s get started.

Manual Testing: What Is It?

In short, manual software testing is the process of testing software application features and functions from an end-user perspective. Unlike automated testing, which uses a software program to conduct such tests, manual testing relies on the actions of a human. Typically, a tester follows a set of predetermined cases to ensure consistent processing, reporting on the software performance through manual QA.

Different Types of Manual Testing

When it comes to manual testing, there are a few different types of it. Here’s a list and a brief explanation of the most common ones:

• Ad-hoc testing. This type is relatively informal and random compared to the other types of testing. No plan, no step-by-step guide.
• Acceptance testing. It is typically done at the end of the manual testing process before the software release. In most cases, it’s conducted by end-users or clients to confirm that the application meets the business requirements and satisfies users’ needs.
• API testing. Conducting tests on API layer is crucial to ensure that the software functions within different systems. If the API layer is broken, the application won’t work.
• Localization testing. Testers apply localization manual testing processes to ensure that application functions properly across the required geo locations. This is particularly important if an app targets a global user community.
• Integration testing. While some integration tests are automated, there are a variety of different manual testing approaches to ensure components within an application work well and are properly integrated.
• Compatibility testing. For applications that want to experience a wide reach of success, investing in compatibility testing is essential. It gives insight into what changes need to be made to unlock cross-platform compatibility.
• End-to-end testing. It is applied to check the connection and order of all the system components. Manual QA experts use end-to-end testing to make sure the whole software performs according to the requirements and all the dependencies work well.
• GUI testing. Graphical user interface testing is performed to ensure that the users will have the best possible interaction and experience while utilizing an app. This type of manual testing involves using case studies to run through an application and reporting on any difficulties or confusion within the graphical interface (e.g. color palette, windows, buttons, etc).
• Functional testing. Functional testing involves running tests to detect errors in a piece of software or an application through checking every single function of it and comparing it to the requirements.

Please note that this list is not exhaustive and there may be other types of software tests that are available, depending on the industry and type of application.

Skills Needed for Manual Testing

According to CNN Money, the number of QA Manager Positions is going to grow by 15% between 2015 and 2025. If you are considering the career of a software tester, you’re surely wondering what types of skills are necessary to become a manual QA specialist. Here are the five skills that we feel are important to get for manual testing starters:

• Picky and attentive, able to create neat reports. Above all else, software QA engineers must be detail-oriented and know how to report on the results of any tests that they conduct.
• Analytical skills. Manual software testers should own the skills to analyze large sets of report data and draw precise conclusions.
• Agile methodology familiarity. As the tech and software industry moves toward agile project management, a manual software tester today should be familiar with this software development methodology.
• Technical testing ability. A manual testing professional will need to know how to run a variety of different manual software tests.
• Planning. A manual tester has to be able to plan out a testing process and track its progress.

Find everything you need to start QA

Some useful links that will cover what do you need for software testing

Prepare yourself for QA testing process

Software Testing Life Cycle (STLC)

Read more about STLC phases

1. Requirement Analysis
2. Test cases
   
3. Bug report template

Now you need to build QA team

QA Engineer interview questions

Starting Your Career as a Software Tester

The requirements for quality assurance testers differ based on the offered job position, which is logical and expected. Still, even when it comes to a software tester position of the same level, companies often have different requirements for the candidates.

Some prioritize domain knowledge and years of experience, while others look for a devoted newbie that can provide a fresh perspective. Some would prefer to see a certified software testing professional as a part of their team, and some would set up an online technical test for a manual tester to learn how much they actually know.

Long story short, when it comes to QA engineer hiring, it makes sense to scan what the companies you like require. How do they see a perfect QA software tester for their team? And while hard skills are what you gain in the process, a trainee software tester can start honing the soft skills valued by the Project Managers anytime.

So the plan is:

1. Start learning software testing theory (using information and links in this post).
2. Find a job where you’ll be able to gain some practical experience.
3. Keep refining your soft skills to become the pro everyone wants in their team.

Summary

Manual software testing is a crucial component of software development, and although it may take a lot of hard work to become a successful software tester, there will always be a great need for experts in this niche.

FAQ

What is manual testing?

Manual testing is the process of checking software by hand, without automation tools, to find bugs, confirm features work correctly, and make sure the user experience is smooth.

Why is manual testing important?

It helps catch usability issues, visual problems, and edge cases that automated tests can miss. It is especially useful during early development and for exploratory testing.

What skills do I need to become a manual tester?

You need attention to detail, analytical thinking, clear communication, basic understanding of software development, and the ability to write clear bug reports.

What is the difference between manual and automated testing?

Manual testing is done by a person, while automated testing uses scripts or tools to run tests automatically. Manual testing is better for exploratory, usability, and one-off checks, while automation is better for repetitive tests.

Can I start a QA career without coding?

Yes. Many manual testing roles do not require advanced coding skills. A strong understanding of testing basics, bug reporting, and software behavior is usually enough to get started.

What are the main types of manual testing?

Common types include functional testing, exploratory testing, usability testing, regression testing, smoke testing, and ad hoc testing.