Test method

A test method is a definitive procedure that produces a test result.

The test result can be qualititive (yes/no), categorical, or quantititive (a measured value). It can be a personal observation or the output of a precision instrument.

Usually the test result is the dependent variable, the measured response based on the particular conditions of the test or the level of the independent variable. Some tests, however, involve changing the independent variable to determine the level at which a certain response occurs: in this case, the test result is the independent variable.

Importance of test methods
In science vital for all interested peresearchers to understand and agree upon methods of obtaining data and making measurements. This is to fully document experiments and measurements and to provide needed definition to specifications and protocols.

A well written test method is important. However, even more important is choosing a method of measuring the correct property or characteristic. Not all tests and measurements are equally useful: usually a test result is used to predict or imply sutiability for a certain purpose. For example if a manufactured item has several components, test methods may have several levels of connections:
 * test results of a raw material should connect with tests of a component made from that material
 * test results of a component should connect with performance testing of a complete item
 * results of laboratory performance testing should connect with field performance
 * etc

Validation of the suitability of the test method is often required.

Content of a test method
The test method might include:


 * Descriptive title and scope of the test method
 * Date of last effective revision and revision designation
 * Person, office, or agency responsible for questions on the test method, updates, and deviations.
 * The significance or importance of the test method and its intended use.
 * Terminology and definitions to clarify the meanings of the test method
 * A listing of the types of apparatus (and the specific device) required to conduct the test
 * Safety precautions
 * Environmental concerns and considerations
 * Sampling procedures. How are samples to be obtained.  Number of samples.
 * Conditioning: temperature, humidity, etc, and Tolerance (engineering)
 * Preparation of samples for the test
 * Detailed procedure for conducting the test
 * Calculations and analysis of data
 * Interpretation of data and test method output
 * Report: format, content, data, etc
 * Accuracy, precision, bias, repeatability, reproducibility, and uncertainty of test results