Sometimes when carrying out a simple test it is easy to overlook bugs. They can be very minimal, such as a graphic issue or missing link, or quite severe like crashes.
In order to help you find them, we have come up with some tips:
- Use the app without internet connection, in Wi-Fi mode and with 3/4/5G
- Switch flight-mode/GPS/Bluetooth on and off
- Receive a call/text message
- Use music player/radio in the background
- Save results in the app, log out and log in again – was everything saved correctly?
- Try using the app in places with poor reception or signal (e.g. basements)
- Switch between portrait and landscape mode
- Change your location (in apps with GPS functionality)
- Use tethering while testing
- Turn off the device during the test
There is plenty more you can do, but this should give you an idea of how to look for things that are not supposed to happen. We call these scenarios “corner cases”.
After finding a bug and checking that you’re the first to do so, submitting it is the next step (and the 11th tip).
Did you know that the documentation of the bug is crucial for us? Our project managers need to be able to retrace all your steps and see the issue either in a screenshot, video or crash log. When handing in bugs, usually the following format is required:
- The title of the bug should include: First the section where you found the bug and then what kind of bug it is (e.g. Terminal area- Download is not working)
- Clear description: Please name every step that led to the bug. Where did it happen? And when? After which action?
- Add the expected and the actual result
- How often did it occur (e.g. 2 out of 5 times)?
- Always add screenshots or, in most cases even better, screencasts/videos
These are the standard factors we ask for in a test, on top of these each client requires more information, such as which network provider the bug was found on or the screen size of where the bug was, etc. Looking for bugs can be fun. Corner cases as well as the right documentation will help you maximize the outcome.
What are your tips and tricks to find bugs?
