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Positive Testing

Positive Testing is the process of verifying that the application behaves as expected when valid and correct inputs are provided, following the normal user workflow.

Positive testing answers: “Does the system work correctly under normal conditions?”

1. Definition

Positive Testing is the process of verifying that the application behaves as expected when valid and correct inputs are provided, following the normal user workflow.

Positive testing answers: “Does the system work correctly under normal conditions?”

2. Purpose of Positive Testing

  • Validate expected system behavior
  • Ensure core functionality works correctly
  • Confirm happy-path scenarios
  • Build confidence in basic system operations

3. Scope of Positive Testing

Positive testing includes:

  • Valid input combinations
  • Correct data formats
  • Normal user actions
  • Standard business workflows

4. Manual Tester’s Role

  • Identify happy-path scenarios
  • Design test cases with valid data
  • Execute tests to confirm expected behavior
  • Verify successful messages and outputs

5. Positive Testing vs Negative Testing

Aspect Positive Testing Negative Testing
Input Valid Invalid
Goal Confirm functionality Break the system
Focus Expected behavior Error handling
Outcome Success Controlled failure

6. Real-Time Example

Login positive testing:

  • Valid username and password
  • User successfully logged in
  • Redirected to dashboard

7. Entry & Exit Criteria

Entry Criteria

  • Functional requirements available
  • Test cases prepared

Exit Criteria

  • All positive scenarios executed
  • Core flows working correctly

8. Common Defects Found

  • Incorrect success messages
  • Unexpected navigation
  • Data not saved correctly

9. Common Mistakes

  • Testing only positive scenarios
  • Assuming positive tests guarantee quality
  • Ignoring boundary cases

10. Interview-Ready Answers

Short answer:

Positive testing validates that the system works as expected with valid inputs.

Detailed answer:

Positive testing ensures that an application behaves correctly under normal conditions using valid data and expected user actions.

11. Key Takeaway

Positive Testing confirms basic correctness, but must be complemented with negative testing.