Ask Mentors Anything

Get your questions/doubts directly answered by our mentors. Let's get started.

Mentee Question

Asked by shalini gupta

How to switch from testing to development?

Mentors Answer

Answered By Mentor Pravin Mali

Transitioning from a testing role (QA or Quality Assurance) to a development role can be a rewarding shift, but it does require strategic planning, skill development, and persistence. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you navigate this transition:

  1. Self-Assessment:
  • Interest: Ensure you're genuinely interested in coding and problem-solving, not just switching because of potential salary hikes or market trends.
  • Skills: Identify the gaps in your current skill set. Do you know programming? If yes, how proficient are you?

2.Learn Programming:

  • Start with Basics: If you're not already familiar, begin with foundational programming languages like Python or JavaScript, which are relatively easier to pick up and widely used in the industry.
  • Practice Regularly: Use platforms like LeetCode, HackerRank, or Codewars to practice coding regularly.

3.Deep Dive into Software Development:

  • Web Development: Start with frontend technologies like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Then, move to frameworks like React, Angular, or Vue.
  • Backend Development: Learn about databases, APIs, and server-side scripting. Languages like Java, Python, Node.js, and their associated frameworks can be beneficial.
  • Mobile Development: If interested in mobile apps, dive into Android (Java, Kotlin) or iOS development (Swift).

4.Projects:

  • Build Side Projects: Create small applications or tools. This not only boosts your portfolio but also gives practical experience.
  • Contribute to Open Source: Engage with open-source communities. It's a great way to learn, contribute, and network.

5.Networking:

  • Internal Transitions: Talk to your HR or manager about your interest in moving to a development role. Companies often prefer internal transitions as they save on hiring and training costs.
  • Engage with Developers: Learn from their experiences, ask for guidance, and possibly mentorship.
  • Attend Workshops & Meetups: Engage in local or online tech workshops, seminars, and meetups.

6.Formal Education:

  • Courses: Online platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and edX offer a plethora of courses on various technologies.
  • Bootcamps: Consider coding bootcamps. They are intensive training programs focused on getting you job-ready for software development roles.

7.Leverage Your Testing Experience:

  • Transition to SDET: Before becoming a full-fledged developer, consider moving to a Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET) role. This role involves both coding (to automate tests) and testing.
  • Quality Perspective: Your background in QA gives you a unique perspective on product quality, user scenarios, and edge cases. This can be an asset as a developer.

8.Update Your Resume & LinkedIn:

  • Highlight Relevant Skills: Update your resume to focus on any development skills, projects, and relevant achievements.
  • Customize Cover Letters: When applying, mention your transition and how your QA background can be an asset in a development role.

9.Interview Preparation:

  • Coding Interviews: Prepare for data structure, algorithms, and problem-solving questions.
  • Behavioral Questions: Be ready to explain your transition, your motivation for switching, and how your testing background can be beneficial.

10.Stay Updated & Persistent:

  • Continuous Learning: The tech world evolves fast. Regularly update your skills.
  • Persistence: Transitioning roles can be challenging. Stay committed and don't get disheartened by potential rejections.


Remember, every developer's journey is unique, so take advice (including this one) as guidance, not a strict roadmap. Your passion, dedication, and continuous learning will be the key drivers in your transition.


Top Performing Mentors This Week 🔥

Loading...

400+

Book a FREE Trial Session with any mentor of your choice

Book a FREE Trial Session