How to use the Pairwise Testing Combination Generator
- 1. List the parametersOne per line as Name: value1, value2, value3.
- 2. GenerateThe tool builds a test set that covers every pair of values.
- 3. Use the tableCopy or download the combinations as your test matrix.
Why pairwise testing works
Many defects are triggered by a single setting or by two settings interacting, such as one browser with one payment method. Testing every pair is much cheaper than testing every combination, and still catches those bugs.
Worked example (default input): Browser has 3 values, OS 3, Payment 2 and User 2. Testing every combination needs 3 × 3 × 2 × 2 = 36 tests. The generator covers all 37 possible value pairs in 10 tests, instead of 36, and then double-checks that no pair is missing. The theoretical minimum is 9 (3 × 3, the two largest parameters multiplied).
Using it in practice
- Group values sensibly: test "Chrome latest" rather than five Chrome versions unless versions really differ.
- Add known risky combinations by hand; pairwise does not guarantee three-way coverage.
- Remove impossible combinations, such as Safari on Linux, and add a replacement row if a pair is lost.
- Good for: browser/OS matrices, configuration settings, form options, API parameters.
The algorithm is a deterministic greedy all-pairs method: each new test starts from an uncovered pair and fills the other parameters with whichever values cover the most new pairs. Dedicated tools such as Microsoft's PICT support constraints and higher strengths for larger models. Complement it with the decision table generator for business rules.
Frequently asked questions
Will the same input always give the same tests?
Yes. The method is deterministic, so you can regenerate the same matrix later.
How big can the model be?
Up to 12 parameters with up to 12 values each.
Is the Pairwise Testing Combination Generator free?
Yes, the Pairwise Testing Combination Generator is free. The first time you generate your first test set, you are asked for your name and WhatsApp number once. After that, this and every other Uncodemy tool opens straight away without the form.