What is meant by test data?

Test data refers to the specific information used during the testing process to evaluate and verify the functionality, performance, and reliability of an application. It is designed to simulate real-world use of the application, allowing testers to observe how the application behaves under various conditions. By using this data, testers can identify bugs, verify that requirements are met, and ensure that the application works as intended.

The focus on verifying an application's behavior is crucial, as the primary goal of testing is to ensure that the application functions correctly according to specified requirements. This includes validating inputs, generating expected outputs, and checking for errors, making test data a fundamental component of effective testing practices.