---
id: characterization
requestedLanguage: en
descriptionLanguage: en
---

# Characterization Testing

- Type: legacy code technique
- Group: Evolving existing code
- Placement: Changing an existing system
- [Source](<https://michaelfeathers.silvrback.com/characterization-testing>)

[HTML](https://dpm.cnonim.name/practices/characterization/)

Captures the actual behavior of existing code before changes, including possible quirks.

## Relationships

- may use baselines from: [Golden Master / Approval Testing](/practices/golden/en.md) (support)
- helps during: [Strangler Fig](/practices/strangler/en.md) (support)
- helps preserve behavior during: [Refactoring](/practices/refactor/en.md) (support)

[Show on the map](https://dpm.cnonim.name/#practice=characterization&lang=en)