Using genetic algorithms for test case generation in path testing

Abstract

Generic algorithms are inspired by Darwin's survival of the fittest theory. This paper discusses a genetic algorithm that can automatically generate test cases to test a selected path. This algorithm takes a selected path as a target and executes sequences of operators iteratively for test cases to evolve. The evolved test case can lead the program execution to achieve the target path. A fitness function named SIMILARITY is defined to determine which test case should survive if the final test case has not been found.