Course
Introduction to Testing in Python
AdvancedSkill Level
Updated 06/2025
PythonProgramming4 hr16 videos53 Exercises4,350 XP24,234Statement of Accomplishment
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Why tests?
Plenty of people write code. Some of them make it work and profitable. But sometimes, even the smartest of the best programmers makes a mistake that can cost millions of dollars. How to decrease the possibility of getting into such a fiasco? How do you ensure that you create a program that does exactly what you want? The very simple answer is: write tests!Python testing basics
During this journey, you will learn the very basics of creating tests in Python. You will meet four types of software testing methods. You will create your own tests to check if the program or a data pipeline works as expected before it goes to production. Whether it is the unexpected null, a typo in your dataset, or mixed-up signs in the equation. You can, and you will catch those cases with the tests.Testing with pytest and unittest
After the course completion, you will know the types of testing methods, and you will be able to choose the most suitable ones for a specific context. You also will be able to design those tests and implement them in Python using the `pytest` and the `unittest` libraries.Prerequisites
Writing Functions in PythonSoftware Engineering Principles in Python1
Creating Tests with pytest
Learn what a test is and how to run the first one of your own with the pytest library! You will get used to the pytest testing framework and the command-line interface. You will also learn how to process specific contexts, like "failed tests" and "skipping the test" with pytest markers.
2
Pytest Fixtures
Learn what a fixture is and how to simplify your code by using it in tests. You will get familiar with the fixture @pytest.fixture decorator and the fixture tools. You will analyze your code to see the "fixture part" in it. Finally, learn how to use teardowns to prevent software failures.
3
Basic Testing Types
Learn what the basic testing types are and their features. Learn about test cases and how they help to implement tests. You will get more skilled with creating test functions and running pytest from CLI in IDE exercises. Finally, you will be able to differentiate the different testing types and create tests for each of them.
4
Writing tests with unittest
In this final chapter, you will meet the unittest framework. First, you will learn basic assertion methods, then its CLI interface, and how to use fixtures. Finally, you will put everything together in the practical examples of data pipelines.
Introduction to Testing in Python
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FAQs
Which testing frameworks does this course cover?
You will work with both pytest and unittest. The course covers pytest fixtures, markers, and CLI usage, then introduces unittest assertion methods, fixtures, and test organization.
What types of software testing will I learn to distinguish?
The course covers four testing types, including unit tests and integration tests. You will learn when to apply each type and how to design appropriate test cases for different contexts.
Do I need experience with software engineering concepts before enrolling?
Yes. Prerequisites include Introduction to Functions in Python, Python Toolbox, Writing Functions in Python, and Software Engineering Principles in Python.
Will I learn how to test data pipelines specifically?
Yes. The final chapter on unittest includes practical examples of testing data pipelines, so you can validate that your pipeline produces correct output before it reaches production.
What are pytest fixtures, and why should I learn about them?
Fixtures set up reusable test preconditions like sample data or database connections. Learning them simplifies your test code and helps prevent failures through proper teardown procedures.
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