Pathwise

Manuals / Exploratory Testing / Chapter 3

A · Structure · intermediate · ~40 min · Chapter 3 of 9

Session-based test management

Timebox a session (e.g. 90 min). Charter, notes, bugs, risks, leftover questions. Debrief. This makes exploration reportable.

Path progress
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Step 1 of 2

Run a scored session

Start timer. Stay on charter unless a thread is clearly higher risk — then note the diversion.

  • Charter + timebox
  • Notes / transcripts
  • Bugs filed or drafted
  • % on charter vs opportunity
  • Follow-ups
Run a scored sessionDrag 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 →Run a scored sessidrag · tap →Try thisdrag · tap →Follow the dashed drag · tap →

Do this now

Complete one 60–90 min session with a session sheet.

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Chapter learning outcomes
  • Session sheets
  • Timeboxes
  • Debrief questions

Clear these before you leave

Side quest

Peer debrief

Walk a peer through your notes for 10 minutes. Fix one unclear note habit.