If you’re preparing for a software testing interview, you’re probably wondering…

“What exactly do they ask?”
“How should I prepare?”
“What if I come from a non-Technical background?”

You’re not alone—many students and professionals I speak to have the same questions. Some are getting interview calls, but not able to crack them. Some just don’t know what the interviewers expect.

In this blog, I’m going to walk you through everything you need to know:
✅ What the interview structure looks like
✅ What topics are commonly asked
✅ How to prepare—step-by-step
✅ And what tools, coding skills, and strategies you actually need to crack the round

So grab a notepad, and let’s dive right in.

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🧭 Step 1: Understand the Interview Structure

Almost every software testing interview—whether it’s for manual or automation testing—follows a basic format. It usually starts with manual testing concepts and then moves on to tools, scenario-based questions, and (if it’s an automation role) some coding and scripting.

Common areas they cover:

• SDLC vs STLC
• Bug/Defect lifecycle
• Test case design techniques
• Test planning and strategy
• Real-time scenarios based on your project

This is where most candidates stumble—not because they don’t know the answer, but because they haven’t practiced explaining things clearly. One simple trick? Prepare and revise real test plans, test cases, and bug reports. Having those ready gives you confidence and makes your answers sound solid.

If you want access to templates and documents I personally use with my students, just drop a message saying “Resources Needed”.

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🔧 Step 2: Know Your Tools (Even If You’re from Manual Testing)

Here’s the thing—manual testers today are expected to have some tool knowledge, even if you’re not applying for an automation role.

You should at least be familiar with:

• Selenium (for automation testing)
• Postman (for API testing)
• JIRA (for test management)
• TestNG, Maven, Git (if you’re getting into frameworks)

If you’re starting with Selenium, I’ve put together a simple Selenium roadmap and practice notes for version 4.2.9 (latest stable one). Happy to share—just let me know in the comments.

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💡 Step 3: Don’t Ignore Coding (Even for Testers)

Now this is important: if you’re applying for SDET or automation QA roles, there’s a good chance they’ll test your problem-solving skills and basic coding knowledge.

Expect questions like:

• Reverse a string, check for palindrome
• Count characters or words in a string
• Array operations: sorting, duplicates, etc.
• Simple Java programs using loops and conditionals
• Write a basic Selenium test script
• API test scenarios using Postman or Rest Assured

You don’t need to become a developer. But having the ability to write and explain a few lines of code can really set you apart.

I usually suggest picking Java if you’re starting with automation. I’ve also created a 30-day Java + Coding practice tracker, which has helped many testers in my classes. Let me know if you’d like that.

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📆 Step 4: Create a 4-Week Preparation Plan

Now let’s talk about strategy. Cramming the night before doesn’t work. You need a plan.

Here’s a simple 4-week plan that actually works:

✅ Week 1:

Focus on manual testing fundamentals
✔️ STLC, test case writing, bug life cycle
✔️ Create sample documents
✔️ Practice answering interview questions out loud

✅ Week 2:

Get hands-on with Postman and start with Selenium basics
✔️ Learn how to automate a simple test
✔️ Explore locators, assertions, waits

✅ Week 3:

Pick up Java basics and core logic problems
✔️ Strings, arrays, conditions, loops
✔️ Solve 1-2 coding problems a day

✅ Week 4:

Mock interviews + final review
✔️ Go through past questions
✔️ Watch mock interviews on YouTube
✔️ Practice explaining your portfolio

You don’t have to study 5 hours daily. Even 1 hour a day consistently, or 3–4 hours on weekends, can get you ready.

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🗂️ Step 5: Build Your Portfolio (Yes, Even as a Tester)

Your QA portfolio is your superpower.

It’s not enough to say “I tested a login page.” You need to show your work:

• Screenshots of test cases and bug reports
• A sample test plan you’ve written
• A small Selenium automation framework (even with 2–3 test cases)
• API test collections from Postman
• GitHub or Google Drive link with your projects

Pro tip: Create a simple portfolio page or blog that links to everything. It shows that you’re serious, and trust me—it impresses hiring managers.

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🧘 Bonus: The 3-Day & 1-Day Prep Strategy

3 Days Before:

• Revise your weak topics
• Revisit key automation scripts
• Learn about the company you’re interviewing with

1 Day Before:

• Don’t stress. Just go over flashcards or key points
• Practice 2-3 coding problems (easy ones)
• Prepare your outfit and resume
• Sleep early – a fresh mind works better than a tired one

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🙌 Final Thoughts & Pro Interview Tips

Here’s what I’ve seen over the years (and from hundreds of my students who cracked QA roles):

✅ Show your thinking during problem-solving
✅ Showcase your work—projects, GitHub, documents
✅ Ask follow-up questions during the interview
✅ Be honest if you don’t know something—but show willingness to learn
✅ Stay calm and confident, even if one round doesn’t go well

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📚 Need Interview Resources?

I’ve compiled:

• Real test plan + bug report templates
• Selenium 4 notes
• 30-day Java coding tracker
• Mock interview recordings
• Portfolio examples

If you’d like them, just leave a comment or drop me a message saying “Resources”.

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Wrapping Up

Software testing interviews don’t have to feel like a black box. With the right mindset, a solid plan, and consistent effort, you can crack them — whether you’re a fresher or switching from manual to automation.

If you’re serious about becoming a skilled automation tester and want proper guidance, our new automation testing course is starting from 27th April. It’s packed with hands-on projects, real-world frameworks, and everything you need to become job-ready.
👉 https://sdet.live/become

Start preparing today. Take one step at a time. And when that offer letter finally lands in your inbox, you’ll know it was all worth the hustle.

Thanks for reading, and wishing you all the success in your QA journey!

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