What is a "test plan"?

A "test plan" is a comprehensive document that outlines the scope, approach, resources, and schedule of testing activities. It serves as a critical foundation for the testing process by detailing the specific objectives of testing, the methodologies to be used, and how testing will be conducted to ensure that the software meets its requirements and performs as expected.

In developing a test plan, various components must be considered, including the identification of what features will be tested, the criteria for passing and failing tests, and the timeline for when testing will take place. Additionally, it may cover the roles and responsibilities of team members involved in the testing process, as well as the tools and environments that will be utilized. This level of organization and detail enables effective planning and execution, ensuring that the testing efforts align with the broader goals of the project.

The other choices do not capture the full essence of what a test plan is. While a list of potential defects relates to tracking testing outcomes, it does not establish the framework for how testing will be conducted. Similarly, a roadmap for the software development lifecycle and a summary of the testing tools are important documents but serve different purposes than a test plan itself.