What is the difference between test cases and test scenarios?

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What is the difference between test cases and test scenarios?

Test cases and test scenarios are both important components of software testing, but they serve different purposes and have distinct characteristics.

Test cases are detailed instructions or steps that are designed to verify specific functionalities or features of a software application. They are typically written in a structured format and outline the inputs, expected outputs, and preconditions for each test. Test cases are often created based on the requirements or specifications of the software and are used to validate whether the application behaves as expected under different conditions. They are usually written by testers or quality assurance professionals and are executed to identify defects or issues in the software.

On the other hand, test scenarios are broader in scope and focus on testing a specific aspect or flow of the software application. They are high-level descriptions of the end-to-end testing process and outline the sequence of actions or events that need to be performed to validate a particular functionality or business process. Test scenarios are often written by business analysts or domain experts and are used to ensure that the software meets the desired business objectives or user requirements. They provide a holistic view of the testing process and help in identifying any gaps or missing functionalities.

In summary, test cases are detailed instructions that verify specific functionalities, while test scenarios are broader descriptions of the end-to-end testing process. Test cases are more granular and focus on specific inputs and outputs, while test scenarios provide a high-level overview of the testing process. Both test cases and test scenarios are essential for effective software testing and quality assurance, as they help in identifying and resolving defects or issues in the software application.