> 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/write-manual-test-cases.md).
# Write Manual Test Cases
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Create step-by-step manual tests with expected results.
Ideal for exploratory or non-automatable scenarios
Manual test cases define **step-by-step actions and expected results** that a tester performs instead of an automated test.
They are useful when:
* The test cannot be automated
* Exploratory testing is required
* Human validation is needed
### When to Use Manual Tests
Use manual test cases when:
* The scenario involves **visual validation**
* The flow is **too complex or dynamic to automate**
* The test is **temporary or one-time**
***
## How to Create a Manual Test Case
### Option 1 - From Test Case Library
* Go to **Test Case Library**
* Right-click any node (**Project**, **Suite**, **Section**, or **Subsection**)
* Click **Add Manual Test Case**
* **Open** the new test case when prompted
* **Write** the preconditions and steps in the table, and add a reference if needed
* Click **Save**
### Option 2 - From Editor (Mini Library)
* Open the **TestFirst Editor**
* Open **Library** from the left-side navigation bar
* Right-click any node or use the **More actions** button\
* Click **Add Manual Test Case**
* **Enter** the test case **name**
* **Open** the new test case
* **Write** the preconditions and steps in the table, and add a reference if needed
* Click **Save**
### Option 3 - Write First, Then Save as Manual
1. Open the **TestFirst Editor**
2. **Record steps** or **write the test case in Gherkin**
3. Set the test type to **Manual**\
4. Click **Convert to manual** in the confirmation
5. Click **Save**
***
### Writing Manual Test Steps
Manual test cases are written in a **structured table format**.
* **Action** → What the tester should do
* **Expected Result** → What should happen
#### Example
| Action | Expected Result |
| --------------------------------- | --------------------------------------- |
| Open the login page | The login page is displayed |
| Enter valid username and password | The input is accepted |
| Click "Sign In" | The user is redirected to the dashboard |
***
## Completing the Manual Test Case
After writing your steps:
1. Review the test case
2. Change the **Status** :arrow-right: **Ready for Testing**
3. Click **Save**
{% hint style="info" %}
Saving is required after updating the status.
{% endhint %}
## Tips for Writing Manual Test Cases
* Keep steps **clear and simple**
* Make expected results **verifiable**
* Avoid combining multiple actions in one step
* Use consistent wording across tests
