Manual testing can grow into a challenge with the fast pace of software development. Even while manual testing is necessary, it takes time. Such testing is also prone to human mistakes. This will frequently prolong the time to market. That is why I have devoted a large chunk of my professional life to putting automated testing into practice and supporting it. It works as a smart strategy that can cut testing time and boost accuracy.

In this post, I will go over the gist of automated testing and the frameworks and tools. Here, we will explore helpful insights on how to learn automation testing. This guide should work well to help you succeed in automated testing. Whether you are a newcomer or experienced tester, it will help all testing experts.

What are the Types of Automation Testing?

There are many kinds of automation testing. Each has a distinct function in the software development lifecycle. Let us explore what are the different types that will decide: "How long does it take to learn automation testing?". It is essential to know about these kinds to choose the right tests for automation-

1. Unit testing: It is the process of evaluating each software module or feature separately to make sure they operate as intended. These are usually written by developers. These are the first line of defense against errors.

2. Integration testing:  It is concerned with validating the interactions of integrated units or parts. Finding problems with the interfaces and connections among the various app parts is the aim.

3. Functional testing:  Functional tests compare the functioning of the program to established criteria. They entail verifying the proper operation of the application's databases and user interface. The APIs and security are verified to know if they work. It also involves verifying other components.

4. Regression testing: This is done to make sure that recent changes to the code have not affected any of the features that already exist. I think that auto-regression tests are quite beneficial. They preserve product quality across its life cycle.

5. Performance testing: This entails evaluating software performance under a variety of scenarios. This will include load testing and scalability testing. Automated performance testing allows the program to manage projected user loads. My advice is to get it to assist in locating problems.

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Which are the Popular Automation Testing Tools and Frameworks

The tools and frameworks used have a major impact on the success of automated testing. In fact, I have used them extensively in my corporate work experience. These technologies make it easier to create and maintain automated tests. 

Know them in detail to get a viable answer to how to learn automation testing for beginners. Several common automation testing frameworks and tools include-

1. Selenium: A popular open-source technology for automating web applications is Selenium. It has strong capabilities for browser automation. It supports a number of computer languages, including Python. It also supports Java and C#.

2. JUnit and TestNG: These are widely used testing frameworks specifically designed for apps written in Java. They offer annotations and assertions. The tool also offers test runners to help in the formulation and execution of automated tests.

3. Appium: Appium is an open-source solution for iOS and Android mobile application automation. It is used for testing mobile apps and supports several programming languages. 

4. Jenkins: This famous continuous integration and delivery solution automates the deployment process. It makes the testing and build processes easy to execute. My advice is to use it to connect with several testing tools. This will allow automated testing in the CI/CD pipeline.

All these tools will help you grasp and know how to learn automation testing step by step. 

Automation Testing: What are the Importance and Benefits     

Automation testing is a crucial method in modern software development since it provides a few important advantages. Let us discover the perks you get to answer the question, "What should I learn for automation testing?"

1. Swiftness and Effort: Automated tests can run at a much quicker rate than manual tests. This allows prompt feedback on code modifications and minimizes testing duration.

2. Precision and Consistency: Automated tests do not rely on human mistakes. They guarantee accurate and dependable test execution. They can perform the same tests accurately.

3. Expanded Test Coverage: Automation enables a great deal of test coverage by running a lot of test cases on many platforms. The tests are even carried out on settings and setups.

4. Decrease in Costs: Putting up automation requires an initial investment. However, doing so reduces the need for labor-intensive manual testing. It helps discover problems early in the creation cycle.

5. Automating continuous testing: This makes it possible for the CI/CD pipeline. It continually checks code changes and quickly identifies and fixes any problems.

How to Go About Automation Testing for the First Time

Learning automated testing might be harsh at first. But with the right strategy, it can be gratifying and doable. It will tell you how to learn automation testing from scratch. Here, I present you a step-by-step tutorial to get you going-

Step 1: Discover the Core Concepts

A firm grasp of basic concepts related to software testing is required before delving into the automation testing course. These include test cases and test plans. It will also include the testing life cycle and various testing styles. The styles will have unit and integrated styles. It will also have functional and regression styles, etc. Use online resources and beginning software testing books to become familiar with these ideas.

Step 2: Select a Programming Language 

Writing test scripts is a common requirement of automation testing. So, this is a crucial step. Popular choices are Java and Python. You can also choose C# and JavaScript. Make sure the language you choose will work with the automation tools you plan to use. You also need to ensure that it meets your project requirements. 

Step 3: Learn an Automation Tool 

Choose an automation tool based on the application type you are testing. Popular tools include Selenium for web applications. You can use Appium for mobile applications. The choice of JUnit/TestNG is for Java applications. Gain an understanding of the selected tool through online tutorials. The documentation and sample projects will also guide where to learn automation testing. 

Step 4: Configure the Environment for Testing

Provide a favorable testing environment by configuring the required hardware and software. Install the dependencies and frameworks. Also, look up the automation tools needed. Set up your development environment. This will include the Integrated Development Environments. It will also include CI/CD tools and version control systems like Git.

Step 5: Create and Run Test Scripts

Try to use the test cases you wish to automate as a guide. It will begin building your initial test scripts. Start with basic test scenarios and work your way up to more intricate ones. You must employ best practices, such as using descriptive names and modularizing code. I think it will help manage errors to write test scripts that are scalable and maintainable.

Step 6: Construct a CI/CD pipeline integration

You may enable continuous testing by integrating your automated tests with a CI/CD workflow. This is setting up the automated tests in your CI/CD tool to execute each time there is a change to the code. Try to keep an eye on the test results and set alerts for failed tests for prompt responses.

Step 7: Increase the Scope of Your Tests

Increase the scope of your test coverage by automating additional test cases. I think you should examine other application features as your confidence in your automation skills grows. Include a variety of test kinds, including compatibility and performance tests. This will ensure to guarantee thorough testing.

Step 8: Continue to Learn and Develop

Continuous learning is crucial since the area of automation testing is always changing. Be aware of the newest developments in tools and best practices. I think you should join online communities and attend webinars. It is also a good idea to participate in forums to enhance your skills and knowledge. 

How Many Days Does It Take to Learn Test Automation?  

Your experience and the level of expertise you want to acquire are some of the variables. It will answer how many days to learn automation testing. Writing simple test scripts and gaining a basic grasp of automation testing usually takes two to six months. However, depending on your level of practice and effort, frameworks might take you anywhere from six to twelve months or more.

What is the best way to learn automation testing?

Effective learning automation testing demands a blend of practical experience and organized learning materials. Here are a few suggested methods for how much time it takes to learn automation testing- 

1. Online Courses and Tutorials

For beginners, online tutorials and courses provide clear learning pathways. Thorough courses on automated testing that extend a range of tools and frameworks. Even programming languages are available on platforms like Pluralsight. Video lectures, practical activities, and quizzes are frequently included in these courses to help students retain the material.

2. Books and Reference Materials      

Books are a great resource for learning automated testing. They offer in-depth information. Popular works on the topic include "Test Automation in the Real World" by Mark Fewster and Dorothy Graham.

I think you must also explore "Continuous Testing for DevOps Professionals" by Eran Kinsbruner. The "Selenium Testing Tools Cookbook" by Unmesh Gundecha is also quite helpful. 

These publications address a wide range of topics related to automated testing. You will explore from fundamental ideas to sophisticated methods.

3. Hands-on Practice and Projects      

Gaining expertise in automated testing requires hands-on practice. Engage in practical work by contributing to open-source projects. You can also work on real-world projects as part of your profession. 

Write and run test scripts on your own by starting your own test automation projects. Take part in hackathons and coding challenges to hone your abilities. You can also pick up tips from other participants to answer your question- how can I learn automation testing?

Conclusion     

To summarize, I can say one of the most useful techniques in modern software development is automation testing. You may use automation to improve the caliber and effectiveness of your software applications. You need to be aware of its tools and advantages. 

You may master automated testing by following a defined learning path. The integrated theoretical knowledge with practical experience will tell how many days it will take to learn automation testing. The path of learning automated testing is exciting and creates new chances for your career. To know more about automation testing, you can enroll in our automation testing course. 

FAQs  

1. How can I become an automation tester?       

Start by learning a programming language. You can go on to excel in an automation tool. I think you should do that by practicing with real-life projects.

2. Is automation testing a good career? 

Yes, automation testing is a highly rewarding career. It is in demand with excellent growth prospects.

3. How to start learning Automation testing online for free?

Utilize free resources such as online tutorials. There are also courses on platforms like Coursera and Udemy. I think you should try to go through documentation from automation tools.

4. Can I learn automation testing without prior knowledge of programming? 

It is possible, but if you have a basic knowledge of programming, it will help. It will enhance your ability to learn and apply automation testing effectively.

5. How should I learn automation testing by myself?

Follow a structured learning path. It will include studying resources and practicing with tools. I think working on hands-on projects will build practical experience.