Bug Reporting Best Practices: How to Write a Perfect Bug Report

Master the Art of Bug Reporting - Write Clear & Effective Bug Reports


 

Introduction

Bug reporting is a crucial part of software testing. A well-documented bug report helps developers quickly identify, reproduce, and fix issues efficiently.

However, many QA engineers make common mistakes like vague descriptions, missing steps, or unclear severity levels. This guide will teach you how to write a perfect bug report that developers will love.

What is a Bug Report?

A bug report is a detailed document that describes an issue found in the software. It helps developers identify, replicate, and fix the bug efficiently.

Why is it important?

  • ✔ Faster bug fixes – A clear report helps developers act quickly.
  • ✔ Better communication – Avoids confusion between QA & Dev teams.
  • ✔ Higher product quality – Reduces unresolved or misinterpreted bugs.

Example: Imagine reporting a bug like this:
❌ "Login button is not working" (Too vague!)
✅ "On clicking the login button, nothing happens. Expected: User should be redirected to the dashboard."

Key Elements of a Good Bug Report

Element Description
1. Bug ID Unique identifier for tracking the bug.
2. Title A clear and concise summary of the issue.
3. Environment Details Information about the OS, browser, and system where the issue occurred.
4. Steps to Reproduce Step-by-step guide to replicate the bug.
5. Expected vs. Actual Results What was supposed to happen vs. what actually happened.
6. Severity & Priority How critical the bug is and when it should be fixed.
7. Screenshots & Logs Visual proof or log files to help developers understand the issue.
8. Assigned Developer The team member responsible for fixing it.
9. Status Open, In Progress, Fixed, Closed.

Example of a Well-Written Bug Report

Bug ID: #BUG-101
Title: Login button not responding after entering valid credentials
Environment: Windows 10, Chrome 112.0, Web Application
Steps to Reproduce:
    1. Open the login page.
    2. Enter valid username and password.
    3. Click the "Login" button.
    4. Nothing happens, and the page does not redirect.
Expected Result: User should be redirected to the dashboard.
Actual Result: Clicking "Login" does nothing.
Severity: High
Priority: Critical
Attachments: Screenshot attached

Sample:


❌ Common Mistakes in Bug Reporting (And How to Avoid Them)

QA testers often make these common mistakes while reporting bugs:

❌ Mistake ✅ How to Fix It
Vague bug descriptions Always explain the issue clearly
Missing steps to reproduce List each step properly
No severity/priority Classify bugs as Critical, High, Medium, Low
No attachments/logs Add screenshots, network logs, error messages
Emotional language Keep the report professional and neutral

Tools to Help You Write Better Bug Reports

Category Tools
Bug Tracking Tools • JIRA
• Bugzilla
• Trello
• Redmine
Screen Capture & Logging Tools • Loom – Record screen videos
• Lightshot – Take quick screenshots
• Charles Proxy – Capture network logs

Best Practices for Writing a Perfect Bug Report

  • ✅ Keep the bug **title clear and descriptive**.
  • ✅ **Provide detailed steps** to reproduce the issue.
  • ✅ **Attach screenshots** or logs to support the issue.
  • ✅ Mention the **expected vs. actual behavior**.
  • ✅ Use proper **severity & priority levels**.
  • ✅ Assign it to the right developer and update the bug status regularly.

Conclusion

A well-written bug report improves communication between testers and developers, ensuring faster resolution of issues. By following these best practices, you can create high-quality bug reports that help improve the overall software quality.

Have Feedback?

Have you encountered challenges while writing bug reports? Let us know in the comments below!

📌 Scope of Manual Testing: Everything You Need to Know

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