Step definition
A step definition is executable code that binds a human-readable behavior-driven development step to actions that perform or verify the corresponding behavior.
BDD in Action, Second Edition
A step definition is an executable mapping that connects a human-readable behavior-specification step to code that performs or verifies the corresponding application interaction.
- How it is used
- Connects Gherkin scenario steps to code that performs application actions or verifies expected outcomes.
- How deep it goes
- Works through matching methods and parameter extraction, then separates step glue from reusable tasks and system interactions.
- Examples
- Uses frequent-flyer membership and flight scenarios, plus a sign-up step mapped to Screenplay tasks.
- What you can do after
- Build it from scratch: match scenario wording, pass captured values into code, and delegate actions to reusable tasks.
Read how BDD in Action, Second Edition explains step definition →
Build Financial Software with Generative AI (From Scratch)
An executable binding that maps a human-readable behavior-driven development step to test code.
- How it is used
- Connects BDD feature scenarios to executable pytest assertions for parsing and API behavior.
- How deep it goes
- Walks through decorators, parser parameters, fixtures, HTTP execution, and assertions, while deferring fuller fixture detail and unsupported request methods.
- Examples
- Uses ACH record-type parsing, a GET /files status check, and an entries endpoint returning Checking applications.
- What you can do after
- Apply it via pytest-bdd to parameterize scenario text, execute test actions, share responses, and assert results.
Read how Build Financial Software with Generative AI (From Scratch) explains step definition →
Related concepts
- testpart of · A test is a procedure or check that evaluates behavior using specified inputs or evidence against expected results or criteria.
- taskused by · A Screenplay task is a reusable actor-behavior abstraction representing a meaningful activity, composed from interactions or other tasks.
- enumuses · An enum is a type or language construct whose values are selected from a finite set of named alternatives, which may carry associated data.
- glue codepart of · Glue code is integration software whose primary purpose is connecting otherwise separate tools, applications, modules, or components so they work together.
- feature fileimplements · A feature file is a human-readable Gherkin document that specifies a software feature and its behavior through scenarios for execution by behavior-driven development tools.
- cucumber expressionuses · A Cucumber expression is a pattern syntax for matching step text and converting parameter placeholders into values for step definitions.
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