PCAT Python Testing

PCAT Python Testing

Duration: 4 Days

Description

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to testing in Python, covering core concepts, best practices, and hands-on techniques. Participants will learn the essentials of software testing, from foundational principles and automation to advanced unit testing and test-driven development. Through practical exercises, they will gain the skills needed to build reliable, maintainable, and high-quality Python applications.

Audience

This course is designed for Python developers, testers, and software professionals who want to strengthen their testing skills. It is ideal for those seeking to incorporate structured testing practices into their workflow, improve code quality, and adopt modern approaches like TDD and BDD.

Objectives

  • Explain key software testing concepts, terminology, and principles
  • Differentiate between levels of testing and apply the Test Pyramid effectively
  • Measure and analyze code coverage to ensure comprehensive test suites
  • Implement test automation and apply refactoring best practices such as AAA, DRY, and KISS
  • Use assertions, context managers, and decorators to support effective testing
  • Apply the F.I.R.S.T principles and xUnit architecture for structured unit testing
  • Write and organize unit tests using the unittest module and specialized assertions
  • Employ advanced techniques such as fixtures, parameterization, mocks, and selective execution
  • Apply Test-Driven Development (TDD) and Behavior-Driven Development (BDD) practices in Python projects

Prerequisites

Participants should have a working knowledge of Python, including variables, functions, classes, and basic object-oriented programming. No prior testing experience is required, though familiarity with software development practices will help maximize learning.

Course Outline

Module 1: Software Testing Essentials

  • Software Testing Concepts and Traits
  • Levels of Testing
  • Errors, Defects, Bugs, and Failures
  • Principles of Software Testing
  • Starting and Stopping Test Activities
  • The Test Pyramid
  • Code Coverage and Dead Code

Module 2: Test Automation and Code Refactoring

  • Purpose and Benefits of Test Automation
  • The Code Refactoring Loop
  • AAA Pattern in Automated Tests
  • Applying DRY and KISS Principles

Module 3: Assertions, Context Managers, Decorators, and Methods

  • The Assertion Statement
  • Context Managers and the Code Sandwich Pattern
  • Function Decorators
  • Class Decorators
  • Instance, Static, and Class Methods

Module 4: Foundations of Unit Testing

  • F.I.R.S.T Principles of Unit Testing
  • xUnit Architecture
  • Running Tests
  • Good Practices for Test Structure
  • Specialized Assertions
  • Unit Tests as Documentation
  • AAA Pattern in Practice
  • Using the unittest Module

Module 5: Advanced Unit Testing Techniques

  • Unit Test Fixtures
  • Parameterized Unit Tests
  • Marking Tests with Special Conditions
  • Selective Test Execution
  • Using Test Doubles
  • Mocking with Patch
  • Handling Exceptions in Unit Tests

Module 6: Test-Driven and Behavior-Driven Development

  • Test-Driven Development Fundamentals
  • Red, Green, Refactor Cycle
  • Behavior-Driven Development Fundamentals