Keyword-Driven Testing
A test automation approach where test steps are defined by keywords (actions) in external files, not in code.
Full definition
Keyword-driven testing (also called action-word testing) uses keywords representing actions (Click, Enter, Verify) combined with test data in external files. Non-programmers can create tests by combining keywords.
Example keyword test: | Step | Keyword | Target | Value | |---|---|---|---| | 1 | Open | /login | | | 2 | Enter | email_field | user@test.com | | 3 | Enter | password_field | password123 | | 4 | Click | login_button | | | 5 | Verify | dashboard_title | Welcome |
Benefits:
- Non-programmers can write tests
- Reusable keywords reduce duplication
- Tests are readable and maintainable
- Separates test design from implementation
Frameworks: Robot Framework (most popular keyword-driven tool)
Keyword-driven testing is less common in modern teams where BDD (Given-When-Then) serves a similar purpose with a more natural language approach.