How does exploratory testing differ from scripted testing?

Exploratory testing is characterized by its emphasis on spontaneous and unscripted exploration of an application, allowing testers to navigate the software freely based on their intuition and understanding of its functionality. This approach enables testers to identify issues that may not be covered by predefined test cases, as they can adapt their testing strategies in real-time based on their observations.

In contrast, scripted testing relies on a structured set of predefined scripts or test cases that outline specific steps to be followed during the testing process. This method is systematic and often focuses on verifying whether specific requirements are met.

By emphasizing the tester's freedom and creativity, exploratory testing can uncover unexpected issues and provide insights that scripted testing might miss. This makes it a valuable complement to more formal testing methods, rather than a replacement, ensuring a more comprehensive assessment of the software's quality.