Introduction: Growing Fresher Hiring Demand in Testing
Software testing is one of the most common and accessible entry points into the IT industry for fresh graduates. Every software product—whether it is a website, mobile app, or enterprise system—must be tested before it is released to users. Because of this, companies continuously hire manual testers, especially freshers with strong basics.
Manual testing roles are ideal for beginners because they do not require coding skills. Interviewers mainly look for:
- Clear understanding of testing fundamentals
- Logical thinking and observation skills
- Ability to explain scenarios in simple terms
That’s why preparing the right interview questions for freshers in manual testing is very important. This article is written purely for beginners, using simple language, step-by-step explanations, examples, test cases, and bug report samples.
What Is Software, Manual, and Automation Testing? (Simple Explanation)
What Is Software Testing?
Software testing is the process of checking whether a software application works correctly and meets user requirements.
Example:
If an application crashes when you click a button, testing helps identify and report the issue.
What Is Manual Testing?
Manual testing means testing software manually without using automation tools.
Examples:
- Entering data into input fields
- Clicking buttons and links
- Checking error messages
Manual testing is the foundation of all testing careers.
What Is Automation Testing?
Automation testing uses tools and scripts to test software automatically.
Simple Example:
Instead of testing the same login feature 50 times manually, a script performs it automatically.
For freshers, companies expect strong manual testing basics first. Automation can be learned later.
Interview Questions for Freshers in Manual Testing (With Answers)
Below are 85+ interview questions for freshers in manual testing, arranged from very basic to slightly advanced.
Very Basic Manual Testing Interview Questions
1. What is manual testing?
Manual testing is testing software manually without using automation tools.
2. Why is manual testing important?
It helps identify defects and ensures good user experience.
3. What is a bug?
A bug is an error where the actual result does not match the expected result.
4. What is a defect?
Defect and bug mean the same thing.
5. What is QA?
QA (Quality Assurance) focuses on improving processes to prevent defects.
Fresher QA Interview Q&A – Manual Testing Basics
6. Difference between QA and testing?
- QA focuses on process
- Testing focuses on the product
7. What is a test case?
A test case is a set of steps used to verify a feature.
8. What is a test scenario?
A high-level description of what needs to be tested.
Example:
Verify login functionality.
9. What is test data?
Input values used while testing an application.
10. What is a test plan?
A document describing testing scope, approach, and schedule.
Manual Testing Concepts for Freshers
11. What is functional testing?
Testing application features against requirements.
12. What is non-functional testing?
Testing performance, usability, and security.
13. What is regression testing?
Re-testing existing features after changes.
14. What is smoke testing?
Basic testing to check if the build is stable.
15. What is sanity testing?
Quick testing after small changes.
Software Testing Life Cycle (STLC) Questions
16. What is STLC?
STLC is the process followed during testing activities.
17. Phases of STLC?
- Requirement analysis
- Test planning
- Test case design
- Test execution
- Defect reporting
- Test closure
18. What is requirement analysis?
Understanding what needs to be tested.
19. What is test execution?
Running test cases and recording results.
20. What is test closure?
Final reporting and documentation.
Practical Manual Testing Interview Questions
21. What is verification?
Checking documents before development.
22. What is validation?
Checking the actual application.
23. What is positive testing?
Testing with valid inputs.
24. What is negative testing?
Testing with invalid inputs.
25. What is boundary value testing?
Testing input limits.
Scenario-Based QA Questions for Beginners
26. How will you test a login page?
- Valid credentials
- Invalid credentials
- Blank fields
- Password masking
- Error messages
27. How will you test a registration page?
- Mandatory fields
- Email format
- Password rules
- Duplicate user check
28. What will you do if a developer rejects a bug?
Re-check steps and explain clearly with evidence.
29. How do you prioritize test cases?
Based on business importance and usage.
30. What if requirements are unclear?
Discuss with BA or team.
Sample Test Cases for Freshers
Login Test Case Example
| Field | Details |
| Test Case ID | TC_Login_01 |
| Scenario | Verify login with valid credentials |
| Steps | Enter username → Enter password → Click Login |
| Expected Result | User logs in successfully |
| Status | Pass |
Mobile Application Test Case Example
Scenario: Verify mobile app launch
- Install app
- Launch app
- Verify splash screen
- Check home screen loads
API Test Case Example (Manual)
Scenario: Verify login API
- Send valid request
- Check response status
- Validate response message
UI Test Case Example
Scenario: Verify button alignment
- Check size
- Check color
- Check text visibility
Bug Report Writing Examples for Freshers
Sample Bug Report Format
Bug ID: BUG_301
Title: Login fails with valid credentials
Environment: Chrome, Windows
Steps to Reproduce:
- Open application
- Enter valid username and password
- Click Login
Expected Result: User logs in successfully
Actual Result: Error message displayed
Severity: High
Status: New
Tips to Answer Confidently in Manual Testing Interviews
- Use simple language
- Give real-life examples
- Don’t guess answers
- Be honest if you don’t know
- Focus on fundamentals
Interviewers prefer clear thinking and communication over memorized answers.
Quick Revision Sheet (One-Glance Summary)
- Manual testing = testing by hand
- Test case = steps + expected result
- Bug = mismatch in behavior
- Regression = testing after changes
- Communication is key
FAQs – Interview Questions for Freshers in Manual Testing
Q1. Is manual testing good for freshers?
Yes, it is one of the best entry-level roles.
Q2. Is coding required for manual testing?
No, coding is not required.
Q3. How many rounds are there in testing interviews?
Usually 2–3 rounds.
Q4. What skills are needed for freshers?
Logical thinking, attention to detail, and basics.
Q5. Can freshers move to automation later?
Yes, after mastering manual testing basics.