Pathwise

Manuals / Exploratory Testing / Guide 1

Start · beginner · Day 0 · Guide 1 of 9

How to use this path

Exploratory testing is simultaneous learning, test design, and execution. It is not “ad hoc with vibes.” You will practice on a real app (staging, demo, or open site) with timers and charters.

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Step 1 of 1

Pick the target

Prefer an app you can break safely. Sauce Demo, your staging env, or a public sandbox.

  • Recommended: 3–5 weeks, 2–3 sessions/week
  • Each session: 45–90 minutes timeboxed
  • Debrief within 15 minutes of ending
Pick the targetDrag stickies · tap for tips
Study mapDrag stickies · tap for tipsKeep it shortdrag · tap →Name the waitdrag · tap →Scope locatorsdrag · tap →Trace when stuckdrag · tap →One browser firstdrag · tap →Isolate statedrag · tap →Assert the UIdrag · tap →Retry wiselydrag · tap →Seed datadrag · tap →Close the loopdrag · tap →Keep it shortdrag · tap →Name the waitdrag · tap →Scope locatorsdrag · tap →Trace when stuckdrag · tap →One browser firstdrag · tap →Isolate statedrag · tap →Pathwise hackdrag · tap →Pick the targetdrag · tap →Try thisdrag · tap →Follow the dashed drag · tap →

Do this now

Name the app + primary user goal you’ll explore for the next 3 weeks.

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Chapter learning outcomes
  • Mindset
  • Practice app
  • Session rhythm

Clear these before you leave

Side quest

Baseline wander

15 minutes unguided click-around. Note what felt confusing — then stop. Charters come next.