Test Plan vs. Test Cases: What’s the Difference?

What is a Test Case?

A test case is typically defined as a document that lays out the following:

• Test data
• Procedures/inputs
• Scenarios
• Descriptions
• Testing environment
• Expected results
• Actual results

It’s used to for a singular test scenario. As a rule, there are usually both a positive and negative test case for each scenario.

The purpose of a test case is two-fold: It’s designed to find any errors or bugs within the software application, and it’s also designed to show how the application should be executed if it performs correctly. It also demonstrates real-world use of the product and whether it fits the customer needs.

What is a Test Plan?

While a test case is only designed to test a particular scenario, a test plan is a comprehensive document that lays out all major activities associated with a particular testing project. A test plan includes:

• Scope of the project
• Objectives
• Target market
• Assumptions
• Testing cycle start/end dates
• Major roles and responsibilities/overall resources
• Testing environment
• Deliverables
• Major risks and how to handle these risks
• Defect reporting and mitigation
• Testing end date

This document is designed to be a resource for both the testing teams and other teams or stakeholders. A test plan shouldn’t be overly long or complicated. It should lay out specifics, i.e. both the OS and the edition/version as opposed to simply the OS. It must also be updated as conditions change or more data is obtained.