Difference between Test Case and Test Script

Last Updated : 06 Aug, 2024

In the field of software testing, two terms often emerge: Test Case and Test Script are two synonyms used interchangeably in test throughout the project. Both are essential in proving the integrity of a software application while testing does involve the same function as verification but they differ in their roles and applications. It is important to get familiar with the distinctions and uses of these testing approaches towards the management of software development and quality control.

What is Test Case?

In Software Testing, Test Case refers to the document that contains the steps that have to be executed to test the software product. It is mainly used to test any particular function or any specific aspect of the developed software. Test cases tell that a necessity is completely fulfilled after testing. Test Case is an arrangement of conditions based on which the tester performs testing upon application and confirms whether the functionalities are partially or completely fulfilled. In other words, a Test Case is the “What” of the test.

Components of a Test Case

Test Case ID: A Test Case Identification number related to the test case.
Test Description: A general idea about the actual purpose of the test case to be created.
Pre-conditions: Any prerequisites that are need to be fulfilled before the test of the program can be conducted.
Test Steps: The specific activities that must be taken with a view to carrying out the test.
Expected Result: The means, actions or result if the software performs the intended purpose when used.
Actual Result: The result obtained when the test was carried out, and the programme or procedures implemented.
Status: A pass or fail analysis that can be derived out of the comparison of the results expected and results obtained.

What is a Test Script?

In Software Testing, Test Script refers to a set of instructions or short program which tests some portion of the functionality of a software product. It is also known as an Automated Test Script because it tests an application automatically. If any test is composed as a small program it is viewed as an automatic test script. Java, Perl, Python, Ruby, VB script are some of the scripting languages used in automatic testing. In other words, a Test Script is the “How” of the test. Test Case and Test Script can be used interchangeably. They are both steps to validate any functionality of the application. But there is a slight difference between them mainly in their representation and working procedure.

Components of Test Script

Script ID: It is an unique ID of the test script that is independent from other test scripts.
Script Description: A brief overview of what the script will test.
Pre-conditions: Approach any conditions that need to be fulfilled before the script can be run.
Script Steps: Commands or instructions that will execute the test.
Expected Result: The expected outcome of the script.
Actual Result: The actual outcome after running the script.
Status: Pass or fail status based on the comparison of expected and actual results.