original article medium.com/@JohnnyV_5G
In the ever-evolving world of software testing, we often find ourselves embarking on new adventures - like trying out the latest frameworks. Recently, we were tasked with implementing a new testing framework and decided to roll with Playwright, because, why not aim for the stars? 🚀
However, as we dove into this exciting new realm, we quickly realized that having a robust testing strategy isn't just about the latest tools. It's also about having a reliable way to identify elements on the page. Enter data-testid
- our unsung hero.
In this piece, we'll explore why data-testid
attributes are like the secret sauce that can turn a good test into a great one. We'll show you how this little attribute can make your Playwright tests as smooth as a victory in the Squid Game - minus the drama, of course. So, buckle up and let's dive into how data-testid
can make your testing journey more manageable and less like a game of chance!
Why Using data-testid
is Important
Separation of Concerns: The
data-testid
attribute helps keep test selectors separate from other attributes that are meant for UI or functionality, likeid
orclass
. These attributes might change as part of UI updates, but thedata-testid
is meant to be stable, ensuring your tests don't break with UI changes.Avoids Targeting Visual Elements: Often, developers are tempted to use classes or styles for testing, but these are subject to frequent changes when CSS is modified. Using
data-testid
ensures that the tests remain stable regardless of visual or structural changes.Readability in Tests: When using
data-testid
, the test code becomes more readable. Testers and developers can immediately understand what element is being tested without guessing based on ambiguous or changing attributes likeid
orclass
.Performance Optimization: Selecting elements using
data-testid
can be faster and more reliable in tests compared to selecting elements by class names, which are generally used for styling and might not be unique or optimized for querying.
Best Practices for Adding data-testid
- For Key Interactive Elements: Use
data-testid
on elements that your tests frequently interact with, such as buttons, input fields, and links. This ensures that the most critical user actions can be reliably tested.
<button data-testid="submit-button">Submit</button>
Stable, Descriptive Naming: The
data-testid
values should be stable and descriptive of the element's role or action, e.g.,submit-button
,login-form
, orprofile-picture
. Avoid using temporary or context-specific names that could change frequently.For Dynamic Content: Use
data-testid
on elements where content changes dynamically, like modals, dropdowns, or dynamically loaded lists. This allows your tests to reliably locate and verify dynamic content.Avoid Overuse: Not every element needs a
data-testid
. Apply it only to elements you interact with in tests, to avoid cluttering the HTML.Multiple Child Elements: If a parent container has multiple child elements, assign
data-testid
to specific children rather than the container. This allows precise interaction with the correct elements in tests.Unique Identifiers: Ensure each
data-testid
value is unique within the scope of your page, so there is no ambiguity when selecting elements in tests.
How to Explain to your Front-end Developers the Importance of Using data-testid
Attributes
Hey there, front-end wizards! Let's chat about data-testid
attributes - those little heroes of testing that don't get nearly enough credit.
Why Use data-testid
?
Because I told you so! …. no no jk jk…. we are alllll in the "same team" 🙄
A Secret Code for Testers: Think of
data-testid
as your personal secret code that only testers and automated scripts know. It's like a VIP pass for your elements. When your testers want to find that elusive button or input field in your complex layout,data-testid
is their golden ticket.The Non-Disruptive Sidekick: Unlike those flamboyant class names or IDs,
data-testid
quietly sits in the background, never stealing the spotlight from your shiny new CSS or causing layout dramas. It's there to help, not to show off.A Refuge from Randomness: If you've ever tried to test something using a dynamically generated class name or ID, you know the struggle is real.
data-testid
is a steadfast anchor in the turbulent sea of changing styles and structure. It's like having a GPS in a maze.The Invisible Friend: It's like having a friend who's always there to lend a hand but never makes a fuss.
data-testid
doesn't mess with your design or functionality; it just does its job silently, helping your tests find what they need without a fuss.A Clean Slate for Future Upgrades: Imagine your app gets a makeover. If you've used
data-testid
, your tests will still be able to find what they're looking for, even if the UI gets a whole new look. No more worrying about breaking tests when you jazz up the design.
So, in Summary…
Use data-testid
attributes as your secret agent for testing. They keep things clean, simple, and less prone to the dreaded "why is this test failing now?" headaches. They're the unsung heroes of the testing world, helping us all live happily ever after in code harmony.
Now, go forth and data-testid
your way to automation success!
await page.evaluate(() =>
{ try { SquidGame.run(); }
catch {
console.log('Looks like we're all playing Red Light, Green Light here!'!');
}
});
https://www.reddit.com/r/ProgrammerHumor/comments/qjpy74/squidgamerun/
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