Testing

Motivation:

Understanding how the GitLab codebase is tested, including unit tests, integration tests, and end-to-end testing.

Types of Tests:

• Unit Tests: Unit tests are the smallest unit of testing, focusing on verifying individual functions or methods. They are designed to isolate and test specific components of the codebase.
  • Example: spec/lib/gitlab/gitlab_shell/commands/create_repository.rb -/spec/lib/gitlab/gitlab_shell/commands/create_repository.rb
• Integration Tests: Integration tests focus on verifying the interactions between different components of the system. They test the flow of data between modules and ensure they work together correctly.
  • Example: spec/features/projects/repository_spec.rb -/spec/features/projects/repository_spec.rb
• End-to-End Tests (E2E): End-to-End tests simulate real user interactions and validate the complete workflow from the user interface to the backend and database. They ensure that all components work together as intended.
  • Example: cypress/integration/issues/create_issue_spec.js -/cypress/integration/issues/create_issue_spec.js

Testing Frameworks and Tools:

• RSpec: RSpec is a behavior-driven development (BDD) framework widely used for writing unit and integration tests. It emphasizes describing the expected behavior of the code. https://rspec.info/
• Capybara: Capybara is a library designed for integration and acceptance testing. It provides a DSL for simulating user interactions within the browser. https://github.com/teamcapybara/capybara
• Cypress: Cypress is an end-to-end testing framework designed for modern web applications. It provides a fast, reliable, and user-friendly way to write and execute E2E tests. https://www.cypress.io/

Running Tests:

• rake spec: Runs all unit and integration tests.
• rake spec:features: Runs all integration tests.
• bundle exec cypress run: Runs end-to-end tests using Cypress.
• rake spec:ci: Runs the entire test suite for Continuous Integration.

Best Practices:

• Test Coverage: Strive for high code coverage to ensure all code paths are tested.
• Fast Tests: Write fast tests that execute quickly to avoid slowing down development.
• Readable and Maintainable Tests: Write tests that are easy to understand and maintain.
• Use Fixtures: Utilize fixtures to provide consistent data for tests.
• Test Isolation: Ensure tests are independent and do not depend on external factors.

Note: This is a general overview of testing in the GitLab codebase. Refer to specific documentation for detailed information about testing individual features or modules.