What is static testing and what techniques are used in it?

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What is static testing and what techniques are used in it?

Static testing is a type of software testing that is performed without executing the code. It involves reviewing and analyzing the software artifacts, such as requirements, design documents, and source code, to identify defects and improve the quality of the software.

There are several techniques used in static testing:

1. Review: This technique involves a group of individuals examining the software artifacts to identify defects, inconsistencies, and areas for improvement. Reviews can be conducted in various forms, such as informal walkthroughs, formal inspections, or peer reviews.

2. Static Analysis: This technique involves using automated tools to analyze the software artifacts for potential defects or violations of coding standards. Static analysis tools can detect issues like syntax errors, unused variables, and potential security vulnerabilities.

3. Code Inspection: Code inspection is a formal technique where a group of developers systematically examines the source code to identify defects and ensure compliance with coding standards. It involves a detailed examination of the code structure, logic, and adherence to best practices.

4. Walkthrough: A walkthrough is an informal technique where the author of the software artifact presents it to a group of stakeholders, who provide feedback and suggestions for improvement. This technique helps identify defects and gather different perspectives on the software.

5. Checklist-based Review: In this technique, a predefined checklist is used to review the software artifacts. The checklist contains a set of criteria or guidelines that need to be checked during the review process. It helps ensure that all important aspects are considered and no defects are overlooked.

6. Dependency Analysis: This technique involves analyzing the dependencies between different software artifacts, such as modules, classes, or functions. It helps identify potential issues related to coupling, cohesion, and modularity, which can impact the maintainability and testability of the software.

Overall, static testing techniques play a crucial role in identifying defects early in the software development lifecycle, reducing the cost and effort required for debugging and testing during later stages.