AD HOC TESTING, also known as Random Testing or Monkey Testing, is a method of software testing without any planning and documentation. The tests are conducted informally and randomly without any formal procedure or expected results.

ISTQB Definition

• random testing: A black-box test technique in which test cases are designed by generating random independent inputs to match an operational profile.

The tester improvises the steps and arbitrarily executes them (like a monkey typing while dancing). Though defects found using this method are more difficult to reproduce (since there are no written test cases), sometimes very interesting defects are found which would never have been found if written test cases existed and were strictly followed. This method is normally used during Acceptance Testing.

Ad hoc testing is normally done when there is limited time or resources to do in-depth testing. For example, software delivery deadline could be 5 PM today but the build gets ready only at 4 PM and there is just 1 hour to check for any errors. Or, maybe, the software development company has not invested in knowledgeable testers and all they can rely on is a few monkeys.

The success of ad hoc testing depends on the experience, creativity and tenacity of the tester (and, of course, luck).

Last Updated on August 31, 2020 by STF