What is Branch Coverage Testing ?
Branch Coverage is a white box testing method in which every outcome from a code module(statement or loop) is tested. The purpose of branch coverage is to ensure that each decision condition from every branch is executed at least once. It helps to measure fractions of independent code segments and to find out sections having no branches.
Branch Coverage testing is important in ensuring that the software is robust and that all possible paths through the application are thoroughly tested. In this article, we will take a closer look at what branch coverage testing is, how it works, and why it is important.
It uses a control flow graph to calculate the number of branches.
Branch Coverage =Â Total number of Branch Executed
/ Total No of Branches
Branch Coverage is sometimes also described as saying that each branch condition must have been true at least once and false at least once during testing.
How Does Branch Coverage Testing Work?
Branch coverage testing works by analysing the code in the software application and identifying all of the possible branches that can be executed. Tests are then created to ensure that each branches is executed at least once during the testing process. The results of the tests are then analysed to determine whether all of the branches of code have been executed.
Why is Branch Coverage Testing Important?
Branch coverage testing is important because it ensures that all possible scenarios in the software application are tested. This is important in ensuring that the software is robust and that there are no hidden defects that could cause problems in the future. By performing branch coverage testing, testers can ensure that the application is thoroughly tested and that it is ready for release to the public.
Example:
To learn branch coverage, let’s consider the below example
Read AÂ Â
Read BÂ
IF A+B > 50Â THENÂ Â
Print "Large"Â Â
ENDIFÂ
If A+B<50Â THENÂ Â
Print "Small"Â Â
ENDIFÂ
Flow Chart of Above Code
To calculate BranchCoverage, We have to find out the minimum number of paths so that all the edges are covered.
First Case : traversing through “Yes “decision, the path is 1-2-4-5-6-8 Â but edges 3 and 7 are not covered in this path.
Second Case :To cover the edges 3 & 7 as these are not covered in first step, we have to traverse through “No” decision. In the case of “No” decision the path is 1-3-5-7,
So by traveling through these two paths, all branches have covered.
Hence BranchCoverage is 2.
The main purpose of the Branch Coverage Testing is to make sure every functional test scenario has the ability to cover all the potential branching for functional looping statements.
Branch Coverage Testing  is used to make sure that all the branches in the code are directed to the essential functional requirements mentioned in the application requirement specification provided by the client or the business stakeholders.
This technique is also important in ensuring that the software meets regulatory compliance requirements. By using branch coverage testing, testers can ensure that the software is of high quality and meets all industry standards.
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