The 10 best software testing books to help you become an IT tester

Perhaps it applies to you. You aspire to the role of a software tester junior and still aren’t exactly sure what this position will entail. Many people imagine the job of a tester in simple terms. Testing the final software or application. However, there is often much more behind this job title. Knowledge of Linux, programming, databases, SQL, as well as technical, analytical and communication skills are essential for the tester job. Read our article What does a software tester do.

A good tester should have a keen eye for detail and a desire to continuously improve. That’s why we’ve prepared a list of books you should know well as a tester. Take a look at them, check out our IT tester jobs and join our team! At msg life we are always looking for dedicated testers.

The Art of Software Testing

(Glenford J. Myers, Corey Sandler, Tom Badgett)

Every software tester’s library should include this title. Why? The first edition was published in 1979 and the most up-to-date version is the 2011 edition. In addition to years of mapping the subject, it contains all the necessary information for beginners and advanced users. The third edition contains tutorials on how to apply classical testing practices to mobile applications, web applications, as well as information on the psychology of software testing or testing in agile environments. Although the book is in a higher price range, it is definitely worth it. Link to the book here.

How to Break Software: A Practical Guide to Testing

(James A. Whittaker)

Although the book was published back in 2002, it has enjoyed popularity mainly because of its different approach to testing. “Software testing is not such an exact science that one can predetermine what to test, construct a plan, and execute it,” reads the book’s description. This practical guide to testing prefers a more applied approach. The key is to develop a different perspective in the developer, to “open their eyes” and “sharpen his sense of smell” so that they can sense where to look for mistakes. Concrete practical examples illustrating real-life situations that testers often encounter are also an advantage. The book is affordable and has only 208 pages. Link to the book here.

Agile Testing: A Practical Guide for Testers and Agile Teams

(Lisa Crispin and Janet Gregory)

Seven key factors for successful agile testing or overcoming barriers to test automation. This and much more is offered by this book released in 2008. This guide is mainly focused on agile testing and is more suited for roles in agile teams. This is also because the book was written by two experts in this field. The book also contains an overview of tools that are very useful in testing and a short overview of software development from the developer’s point of view. “This book is a must-have for agile testers, agile teams, their managers, and customers,” reads the book jacket. Do not hesitate to buy it. Link to the book here.

A Practitioner’s Guide to Software Test Design

(Lee Copeland)

The book offers a comprehensive, up-to-date and practical introduction to software test design. So if you’re just getting started with testing, this 2003 title is a must. With it you will learn not only all important testing techniques and procedures, but also how to test effectively. The title reveals how to find software bugs in less time with fewer resources and how to develop optimal strategies. There are also case studies that better illustrate the issues. It is a useful guide for test engineers, developers, analysts or quality assurance professionals that is on a par with a university course. Link to the book here.

Lessons Learned in Software Testing: A Context-Driven Approach

(Cem Kaner, James Bach, Bret Pettichord)

Decades of software testing experience summarized in 320 pages of the most important insights. “The world’s leading software testing experts give you their knowledge and years of experience to help you avoid the most common software testing mistakes,” says the book. It’s not just about tips, tricks and pitfalls to avoid. The title focuses on the critical phase of software testing without the numerous trials and errors that are common in testing. The knowledge is summarized in 200 lessons, followed by explanations and examples illustrating how, when and why the selected procedures were applied. Link to the book here.

Software Testing Career Package – A Software Tester’s Journey from Getting a Job to Becoming a Test Leader!

(Vijay Shinde)

This 2013 book provides the proven methods needed to master software testing, including real-world examples to help understand the core techniques of this industry. An e-book that could also be called “all-in-one” shouldn’t be missing in your library. It is intended not only for beginners, but also for those who want to achieve perfection in testing. “It doesn’t matter if you are a student, a graduate looking for a job in software testing, or a professional working as a test engineer or test manager,” reads the book’s description. The author is a software tester with nine years of experience. Link to the book here.

More of our picks for books on software testing:

• Advanced Software Testing (Rex Black) – Martinus.
• Software Testing (Paul C. Jorgensen) – Martinus.
• Software Testing Techniques (Boris Beizer) – Amazon.
• Perfect Software: And Other Illusions about Testing (Gerald M. Weinberg) – Amazon.
• How We Test Software at Microsoft (Alan Page) – Amazon.
• Fifty Quick Ideas To Improve Your Tests (Gojko Adzic) – Amazon.

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