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# QA Determines What to Test

Before you can determine what to test, you need to understand what has changed. The project might range from simple bug fixes to a never-before-tested product, in which case determining what to test is complex.

Once you have determined the scope of the changes, determine how and where each change affects the software. To isolate the changes, first find out which programs have been affected, and then find out what those programs do. Consider whether the changes affect one another. Determine how each change affects other functions in the application or in an interfaced application.

After you have isolated the areas that require testing, determine which tests to perform. You might be able to use or modify existing tests and checklists to test functions or features of the software, or you might need to write a new test or checklist.