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Free Test Case Template – Download the software test plan template Excel

If you are looking for a software test plan template in Excel, look no further. Although we are unsure why you would desire to manage a project in Excel when there are so many great free test management systems, AccelaTest included. However, here is a free template you can download and use for your application testing needs. This template is easy to use and helps you keep track of all the essential details associated with application testing.   

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Where can you find the promised Excel Template?

Many of the top search results make you dig through walls of text or pay a fee to find the promised file. We make it simple to download either of our two samples, openable in Microsoft Excel or any other spreadsheet software. The software test plan template excel has comprehensive fields for capturing software requirements and tracking software tests.

Template 1:

Example of a populated Free Test Case Template in Excel.

Template 2:

Recommended Tools to use instead of Excel

As mentioned earlier, Excel is a wonderful tool for performing calculations. However, there are many software applications available that can help software testers effectively manage their software testing process. Here are some software test case management tools that we recommend:

#1. AccelaTest

AccelaTest

AccelaTest is a web-based fully-featured test case management tool. It allows you to manage the whole testing lifecycle through an intuitive UI. From documenting test suites to writing test cases and finally executing and reporting across multiple test runs, AccelaTest has you covered. For a complete list of features, check out our tour.

Generous free cloud-based features of AccelaTest include:

  • Up to 3 Projects included for free.
  • Unleash the power of data-driven scenarios with flexible test step and test case parameterization.
  • Document your test scenarios in either Traditional Action/Expected Result or BDD Test Scenarios.
  • Quickly build your test bed with reusable shared steps.
  • Import and export your test scenarios.
  • Execute your test cases in an intuitive test runner.
  • Test against your various environments.
  • Effortlessly report results related to your testing cycle.
  • Build tester teams to collaborate your testing efforts efficiently.

Pricing starts from $0/month.


#2. TestRail  

TestRail by Gurock Software is a web-based test case management application that can be used to write, manage, and track test cases. It makes tracking test results simple and easy.


#3. Practitest  

PractiTest is a SaaS-based end-to-end test case management platform that ensures full quality coverage with the entire QA process. It is suitable for any testing methodology, from traditional to DevOps. Also, it allows users to centralize all aspects of their testing process in one place.   


#4. Zephyr  

Zephyr is a test management tool that enables users to manage, execute, and track test cases. It also provides real-time insights into the testing procedure.  


What is a Test Case Template?   

A software test case template is a document that describes a set of test scenarios. It includes the test steps, expected results, and other essential test data that help determine whether or not the software meets the intended requirements or functionality.

The best test case templates strike a healthy balance between detail and conciseness. It should have enough information for the tester to understand what has to be tested, but not so much that it becomes overwhelming or difficult to navigate.

What is the maximum team size an Excel template can handle?

The software test plan template excel is designed to handle a maximum of 3 team members. With this few, it can become challenging to manage the details of all the tests and requirements and swap files around. If you have a larger team, then it is recommended that you use a different TCMS such as AccelaTest. This way, you can keep everyone on the same page and ensure that all tests are properly tracked.

How to Use the Test Case Template?  

As a software test plan template, Excel can help streamline your software testing process and ensure all important details are accounted for.

By writing test cases in a standard format, you will reduce the time to understand the case and avoid missing critical steps during software testing. It also helps maintain a proper traceability matrix for the software project, which is crucial for software quality assurance.

You can simply enter your test requirements into the appropriate fields with a template. Then, use the template to create new test cases or modify existing ones.  

This template is a great way to get started with application testing and ensure that all your testing needs are met. Give it a try today!  

What Should be Included in a Test Case? Standard Fields of a Sample Test Case Template   

A test case should include the following information:  

Test Case Field Description
Test Case ID A unique identifier for the test case.  
Test Case Name A brief description of the testing scenario.  
Test Case Description A more detailed description of the testing scenario.  
Prerequisites Any software or hardware requirements must be met before the testing begins.  
Test Execution Steps The specific steps must be followed to execute the testing scenario.  
Expected Results The expected outcome of the testing scenario.  
Actual Test Result The actual outcome of the testing scenario.  
Pass/Fail Criteria The criteria will help determine whether the testing scenario has succeeded.  

View of a Test Case Template ready to be filled out.

You can easily track and manage your testing process with a test case template. This template is an essential tool for software testers who want to ensure that their applications meet all functional requirements.  

How to write scenarios in the excel test case template

Test cases should be easy to understand and free of ambiguity. The following tips will help you write tests in the template that are effective and efficient:  

  1. Use the standard template. A software test case template can help you to write test cases that are easy to understand and follow. 
  2. Include all relevant information. Be sure to include all relevant information in your test case, such as the test steps, expected results, and pass/fail criteria as defined in the above standard fields.
  3. Be clear and concise. Do not use ambiguous terminology. Test cases should be easy to understand. Use simple language, and avoid using jargon and abbreviations, or acronyms.
  4. Make sure they are repeatable. Test cases should be repeatable to be used to verify the application’s functionality in the future.  

Pitfalls of Using Excel Sample Template for your Test Case Management System

Although an Excel software testing template can be a helpful tool, it is important to be aware of the potential pitfalls many teams experience when trying to scale with it. The pitfalls are plentiful so be sure to watch for them:

  • Different File Versions: One of the most frustrating things software testers experience is working with different file versions. It can be difficult to track which software tester has which version of the software testing template.
  • Inconsistent Data: Another problem software testers face is dealing with inconsistent data. When software testers use different Excel templates, they may inadvertently leave out important information or include incorrect information.
  • Difficult to Share: software testers may find it difficult to share their software testing template with others on their team. This is because the software testing template is often stored locally on each software tester’s computer.
  • Not Scalable: software testers may find that their Excel software testing template is not scalable. As the software testing team grows, the software testing template may become difficult to manage.

If you do dare to use an Excel software testing template, be sure to avoid these potential pitfalls. What is the better solution? Use a software application designed specifically for software test case management instead. This will save you time and frustration in the long run.

Conclusion   

By using a test plan template, you can easily track and manage your software testing process and ensure it is efficient and effective. Start creating your test cases today with our free templates!