How to Become a Software Tester?

Software testing has quickly become a pivotal discipline within today's fast-evolving technological environment, serving to ensure the delivery of top-quality, user-friendly applications that satisfy customer demands while remaining cost competitive. Organizations aim to fulfil these customer requirements while simultaneously keeping an edge competitive edge; hence the rise of software testers; let’s have an in-depth account of how to become a software tester with proper qualification and skills.

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Table of Content

What is Software Testing?

Software testing is a systematic process that involves evaluating and validating a software application to identify defects, errors, and discrepancies. It encompasses a wide range of activities, including test planning, test case design, execution, and defect reporting. A qualified software tester plays a pivotal role in maintaining the integrity and performance of software products before they are released to end-users.

Also Read: Software Testing Life Cycle

Who is a Software Tester?

A software tester is someone who uses their skills to guarantee that computer programs or software perform as intended. They must ensure that the program runs well and that there are no issues in the final result. This also aids in discovering any flaws in the product and correcting them before the final product is manufactured. This will allow enterprises to deliver the products their customers require.

Also Read: Quality Assurance Vs Quality Control

What does a Software Tester do?

A software tester's responsibility varies depending on the firm, but essentially he or she studies the software and discovers defects, eliminating poor performance and interface difficulties. They must also conduct several tests at various stages of the software development life cycle. Let us look at the fundamental duties of a software tester: 

  1. They must gather and document manual and automated testing. 
  2. They must carry out tests, examine the data, and report on anything that needs to be improved or corrected. 
  3. They must test in all phases, including design, development, testing, release, and maintenance. 
  4. System requirements must be examined. 
  5. Report any concerns discovered during the exploration stage. 
  6. Also, anytime any changes are made to the code, regression testing is run.
  7. When necessary, attend or hold review sessions with developers and other teams. 
  8. Maintain the software's quality. 


How to become a Software Tester?

A software tester is one of the most sought-after jobs in the tech industry. So, let’s explore how to become a software tester: 

  • Get an undergraduate degree

Some companies hire individuals based on the skills they possess but it is advisable to hold an undergraduate degree in a relevant field like engineering, computer science or maths. 

Also Read: End to End Testing Best Practices

  • Gain coding skills 

It is important as a software tester to learn coding to increase your occupational skills. You can always take help of the online courses to improve your skills. 

  • Gain experience 

Gaining more experience as a software developer will help you enhance the value of your resume. Depending upon the career path you have chosen, you must gain experience in that particular field.

Also Read: Acid VS Base Database

  • Earn certifications 

Certifications can really help you climb the success ladder faster. You can always take this certification while you are still on the job. 

  • Soft skills 

It is also important to develop the right soft skills as it will help you become a better leader or collaborate better with the team. 


How to become a Software Tester with no experience?

Becoming a software developer can be a straightforward journey when you possess the requisite skills and a clear sense of your desired path. Below, we outline some straightforward steps to guide you on this rewarding journey:

  • Improve your coding skills
  • Create a portfolio 
  • Build your online presence 
  • Need to network with other programmers 
  • Earn certifications
  • Make a strong resume 
  • Build projects of your own 

Get yourself hired as Software Tester in your first interview, find top automation interview questions and answers asked in interview

Software Tester Qualifications and Skills:

Becoming a proficient software tester requires a combination of technical knowledge, analytical skills, and attention to detail. While educational backgrounds and certifications can vary, there are certain qualifications explained, that are generally sought after in the industry:

Read More: Software Testing Techniques

Educational Background: A bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field is often considered a strong foundation for a software testing career however for StarAgile’s Automation Testing everyone, even freshers are welcome. This educational background provides the necessary theoretical understanding of software development principles and concepts.

Also Read: Software Testing Tools

  1. Technical Proficiency: A software tester should have a solid grasp of programming languages, database management systems, and testing tools. Proficiency in languages like Java, Python, or C# allows testers to comprehend code structures and write effective test scripts.
  2. Testing Methodologies: Familiarity with various testing methodologies, such as manual testing, automated testing, and exploratory testing, is crucial. Each methodology has its own strengths and weaknesses, and a skilled tester knows when and how to apply them appropriately.
  3. Problem-Solving Skills: Software testers need to be adept at identifying, isolating, and reproducing defects. Strong problem-solving skills enable testers to work collaboratively with developers to resolve issues effectively.
  4. Attention to Detail: Meticulous attention to detail is paramount in software testing. Testers must meticulously follow test plans, document test cases, and provide accurate reports on defects and their impact.
  5. Communication Skills: Effective communication is essential for conveying testing results, collaborating with development teams, and contributing to the improvement of software quality. Clear and concise communication ensures that the testing process is aligned with project goals.
Now we know what these qualifications are, so let’s have a look what makes a software tester

Category

Ideal Certifications

Key Skills and Attributes

Related Knowledge/Tools

Certifications

-StarAgile’s Automation Testing Certification with Pay after Placement Feature


-Certified DevOps Engineer

Technical Proficiency: Strong programming skills (Java, Python, etc.)


 Proficiency in Selenium or other automation tools.

Testing 


Methodologies:Expertise in various testing types (functional, regression, performance, etc.)


Problem-Solving Skills:- Ability to identify, isolate, and reproduce defects.


Analytical Thinking:- Ability to analyze requirements and formulate effective test strategies.

- Knowledge of Agile/Scrum methodologies- 


Cloud computing concepts (for DevOps)  - Version control systems (e.g., Git)

Automation Tools

- Selenium WebDriver  - Appium  - JUnit/TestNG  - Cucumber

Test Automation:  - Proficiency in using Selenium or other relevant tools for automated testing.  Scripting Languages:  - Strong scripting skills for creating test scripts (Java, Python, etc.)  Behavior-Driven Development (BDD):  - Ability to write BDD scenarios using tools like Cucumber.

- Understanding of mobile app testing (for Appium)  - Knowledge of Continuous Integration tools (Jenkins, Travis CI)

Testing Frameworks

- TestNG  - JUnit  - PyTest  - NUnit

Test Frameworks:  - Proficiency in using testing frameworks for efficient test organization and execution.  Parallel Testing:  - Ability to run tests in parallel for faster execution.  Test Reporting:  - Generate clear and comprehensive test reports.

- Familiarity with data-driven testing  - Understanding of parameterization and data providers in frameworks

Version Control

- Git

Version Control:  - Ability to manage codebase using version control systems like Git.  Collaboration:  - Effective collaboration with developers and other team members.

- Understanding of branching strategies (Git Reflog & Git branching models)

CI/CD Integration

- Jenkins  - Travis CI  - CircleCI

Continuous Integration/Continuous Delivery:  - Integrating tests into CI/CD pipelines.  Automation:  - Automate test execution and reporting as part of the CI/CD process.

- Knowledge of setting up Jenkins pipelines  - Understanding of Docker containers

API Testing

- Postman  - SoapUI

API Testing:  - Ability to test APIs effectively using tools like Postman or SoapUI.  API Fundamentals:  - Understanding of RESTful APIs, HTTP methods, and authentication.

- Familiarity with JSON and XML formats  - Handling authentication tokens and headers

Database Testing

- SQL

Database Testing:  - Proficiency in writing SQL queries for database testing.  Data Validation:  - Validate data integrity and consistency in databases.

- Understanding of relational database concepts  - Knowledge of database management systems

Problem Solving

- Critical Thinking  - Logical Reasoning

Critical Thinking:  - Ability to analyze complex scenarios and identify potential issues. 


Debugging Skills:  - Effectively troubleshoot issues and identify root causes.

- Familiarity with debugging tools and techniques  - Understanding of log analysis

Communication

- Effective Communication Skills

Communication:  - Clear and concise reporting of test results and issues.  


Team Collaboration:  - Collaborate with developers and stakeholders to resolve issues.

- Written communication for test documentation  - Verbal communication in team discussions


Career Progression and Opportunities:

As a software tester, the journey doesn't stop with entry-level qualifications. Continuous learning and skill development are essential for staying relevant in a dynamic industry. With experience, software testers can explore roles such as:
Senior Software Tester: Led testing efforts, mentoring junior testers, and contributed to test strategy and planning.
Test Automation Engineer: Specializing in developing and maintaining automated test scripts to streamline testing processes.
Quality Assurance Manager: Overseeing the entire testing process, managing testing teams, and ensuring adherence to quality standards.


Software Tester Salary

With the use of AI and other technologies in the current market, the demand for software testers has increased profoundly.  The market size has been increasing steadily and software testers can expect a competitive salary for themselves. The software testers can expect their salary between 2-7.8 lakhs per annum. And the average salary for them is 3.5 LPA. 


Conclusion

Software testing is an indispensable aspect of software development, safeguarding the user experience and minimizing risks associated with software defects. The qualifications and skills outlined in this guide provide a strong foundation for individuals aspiring to excel in the field of software testing. By continuously enhancing their knowledge, staying updated on industry trends, and seeking relevant certifications, software testers can contribute significantly to the success of software projects and the satisfaction of end-users.

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