Software Testing - Test Script – A Sequence of Instructions to Perform Tests (Opkey)

A Test Script is a structured sequence of instructions or actions that defines how a test should be executed on a software application. It specifies what steps to perform, what inputs to use, and what results to verify in order to validate a particular functionality or business process.

Test scripts are commonly used in automated testing, where the steps are executed by a testing tool instead of a human tester. Each script follows a predefined flow to ensure that testing is repeatable, consistent, and reliable.

Objective of a Test Script

The primary objective of a test script is to automate the execution of test cases so that software functionality can be validated efficiently and repeatedly.

Test scripts help to:

  • Execute test steps in a consistent manner

  • Reduce manual testing effort

  • Improve accuracy by avoiding human error

  • Support regression and repetitive testing

  • Speed up the overall testing process

Structure of a Test Script

A test script typically contains the following elements:

  • Test Steps – The ordered actions to be performed on the application

  • Input Data – Values required for execution, such as usernames or form data

  • Expected Results – The outcomes that confirm correct behavior

  • Validation Points – Checks to verify actual results against expected results

  • Error Handling – Steps to capture failures or exceptions

This structure ensures clarity and traceability during test execution.

Types of Test Scripts

Test scripts can be classified into different types based on how they are designed and executed:

  • Linear Scripts – Simple scripts that follow a fixed sequence of steps

  • Modular Scripts – Scripts divided into reusable modules

  • Data-Driven Scripts – Scripts executed using multiple data sets

  • Keyword-Driven Scripts – Scripts built using predefined keywords

  • Hybrid Scripts – Combination of multiple scripting approaches

Each type serves different testing needs depending on project complexity.

Test Scripts in Opkey

Opkey uses a no-code, keyword-driven approach to create and manage test scripts. Instead of writing traditional programming code, test scripts in Opkey are built using business-friendly steps and reusable components.

In Opkey, a test script represents a business process flow, such as creating an order or validating a transaction, making it easier for both technical and non-technical users to understand and maintain.

Components of an Opkey Test Script

An Opkey test script typically includes:

  • Business Process Steps – High-level actions aligned with real workflows

  • Reusable Components – Prebuilt actions that can be reused across scripts

  • Test Data – Input values linked to the script

  • Validations – Checks to confirm expected behavior

  • Execution Rules – Conditions that control when and how the script runs

This component-based design improves scalability and maintainability.

How Test Scripts Are Created and Executed in Opkey

The creation and execution of test scripts in Opkey generally follows these steps:

  1. Identify the business process to be tested

  2. Select or create reusable components

  3. Arrange components in a logical sequence

  4. Associate test data with the script

  5. Define validation checkpoints

  6. Execute the script using Opkey’s automation engine

  7. Review execution results and reports

This process allows quick test creation and consistent execution.

Example Use Case

In an enterprise application:

  • A test script automates the login process

  • The same script runs with multiple user roles

  • Validations confirm successful login or error handling

  • The script is reused in regression cycles

This ensures reliable validation of critical functionality.

Advantages of Using Test Scripts

  • Ensures repeatable and consistent testing

  • Reduces manual testing workload

  • Improves test execution speed

  • Supports large-scale regression testing

  • Enhances test coverage and reliability

Limitations of Test Scripts

  • Initial creation requires proper planning

  • Scripts must be updated when application changes

  • Poorly designed scripts reduce maintainability

  • Over-automation may miss exploratory issues

Practical Use in Testing Projects

Test scripts are widely used in automation testing frameworks, especially in projects with frequent releases. Tools like Opkey allow organizations to manage large collections of test scripts efficiently, ensuring continuous validation of business-critical processes.

By standardizing test execution and enabling reuse, test scripts form the backbone of scalable and maintainable automated testing strategies.