Timely Tempo
.jpg "A quick gesture drawing")
As I learned the vocabulary of drawing I realized that most of my drawings were detailed studies where I attempted to record every last detail. I decided to switch to gesture drawings - quick sketches whose only intent is to get the spirit of the pose. After some time of these I opted for a long study, and I was surprised at how much better I had become. Gesture drawings forced me to identify and record the key details quickly, and long studies gave me time to identify and record a multitude of details. Practicing each brought improvements in the other.
As I learned the vocabulary of testing I realized that most of my tests were studied attacks on my applications where I attempted to identify every last defect. I decided to switch to short timeboxed test sessions, where I invented my test cases on the fly. After some time of these I opted for a time of involved prethought, and I was surprised at how many more issues I found. Rapid-fire testing forced me to think quickly, and long planning sessions gave me time to look for holes I might have missed. Practicing each brought improvements in the other.
Vary the speed and the level of detail at which you work, and each will bring improvements in the other.
[See all my art at http://www.freelyoffered.com.]
*** Want a fun job on a great team? I need a tester! Interested? Let's talk: Michael dot J dot Hunter at microsoft dot com. Great testing and coding skills required.