> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.testfirst.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.testfirst.com/testfirst-editor/editor-overview.md).

# Editor Overview

The **TestFirst Editor** is where you create, automate, edit, run, and debug your test cases.

For automated tests, you can use Agentic Automation to turn test intent into working automation. You can also refine tests using the Recorder or edit the Gherkin directly when you need more control.

The Editor allows you to:

* Build and validate automated tests with the TestFirst Agent
* Create and edit automated tests using Gherkin
* Refine automation using the Recorder
* Create manual test cases
* Run and debug tests
* Follow test execution in real time

***

### Editor Layout

The Editor keeps the tools you need to build and run tests in a single workspace.

#### Test Case Library (click **Library** to open the left panel)

From here, you can:

* Organize test cases into Projects, Suites, Sections, and Subsections
* Create new Automated or Manual test cases
* Quickly navigate between tests

***

#### Editor Area

This is where you build and edit your test.

Depending on the test type:

* **Automated tests** → Build automation with Agentic Automation or edit the Gherkin directly
* **Manual tests** → Define step-by-step actions and expected results

For automated tests, the TestFirst Agent can understand the test intent, explore your application, build the automation, and validate the resulting workflow.

{% hint style="info" %}
Want more control? 

Refine the generated automation using the [Recorder](/testfirst-editor/writing-test-cases/record-test-cases.md) or [edit the Gherkin directly](/testfirst-editor/writing-test-cases/write-test-cases-with-gherkin.md) in the TestFirst Editor.
{% endhint %}

***

#### Preview Panel (Right Side)

{% hint style="info" %}
Click Preview to show or hide the panel. The Preview also appears automatically when needed during test execution.
{% endhint %}

The Preview panel lets you follow application interactions in real time.

Use it to:

* Follow the TestFirst Agent as it explores your application
* Watch automated test execution
* Verify application behaviour as the test runs

When using Agentic Automation, keep the Editor open and use the Preview to follow the agent while it explores and validates your test.<br>

***

#### Debug Console (Bottom Panel)

The Debug Console provides detailed information during test execution, including:

* Mapped Selectors — how elements are identified
* Execution log — step-by-step execution results
* Debug log — detailed runtime information
* Local variables — data available during execution

Use the Debug Console to investigate and troubleshoot test failures.

***

### Creating Automated Tests

For most automated tests, start with Agentic Automation.

The TestFirst Agent uses the test intent and available product knowledge to:

```
Understand
   ↓
Explore
   ↓
Build
   ↓
Validate
   ↓
Review
```

Once generated, the automation becomes part of the test case and can be edited and maintained directly in the Editor.

You can also use the Recorder or edit the Gherkin when you want to refine the generated automation or take direct control.<br>

***

#### Manual Test Cases

Manual test cases use structured steps and expected results and can be created and maintained directly in the Editor.

***

### Basic Workflow

A typical automated test workflow in the TestFirst Editor is:

1. **Create or open** an automated test case
2. Click **Agentic Automation**&#x20;
3. Add any Additional context or instructions for the agent
4. **Start** the agent and follow its progress in Preview
5. **Review and accept** the generated automation
6. Refine it if needed
7. **Save and run** the test
8. Use the Debug Console if you need to investigate execution issues

***

### Key Actions

From the top toolbar, you can access:

* Agentic Automation → Build and validate automation with the TestFirst Agent
* Recorder → Record or refine automation through application interactions
* Save → Save changes to your test case
* Local Run → Run tests locally
  * Dry Run → Run the test normally
  * Debug → Run with debugging controls
* Remote Run → Run the test in the cloud
* Preview → Follow application interactions and execution
* Stop → Stop the current execution