API Endpoint Test Workflow
Write and run integration tests for a new API endpoint to verify status codes, response format, and error handling.
Objective
Verify that a new API endpoint works correctly for success and error cases before deployment.
Environment
- A running local API server
- A test framework
- An HTTP client library
Steps
1. Write success test
Create a test that calls the endpoint with valid input and asserts the expected 200 response.
Expected state: A test for the happy path is written and passing.
2. Write error tests
Add tests for invalid input, missing fields, and unauthorized access.
Expected state: Tests for 400, 401, and 422 responses are passing.
3. Run all tests
Execute the full test suite to verify no regressions in other endpoints.
Expected state: All tests pass including the new endpoint tests.
Decision points
Should you test edge cases now or later?
- Now, before merging
- Later, when issues arise
Test edge cases now; it is easier to fix issues before the endpoint is deployed.
Expected outcome
The new endpoint is covered by tests for both success and error cases, and all tests pass.
Verification
Run the test suite and confirm all tests pass; manually call the endpoint to verify the response format.
Cleanup
No cleanup needed; tests should be committed with the endpoint code.
Test success and failure
A good endpoint test covers the happy path and at least three error cases: invalid input, auth failure, and not found.
npm test -- --grep "users endpoint"Implementation Notes
This workflow provides a structured approach to ensure consistent results across team members and environments.
Common Pitfalls
Skipping verification steps or rushing through the process can lead to incomplete results. Always follow each step in order and verify before proceeding.