3.4Pairing Techniques

Pairing is the single most effective mentoring tool. It provides real-time feedback, models expert thinking, and builds relationship trust.

Exploratory Testing Pairs

Format: Senior and junior test the same feature together for 30-60 minutes.

How to run it:

1. Senior starts by exploring for 10 minutes, narrating their thought process
2. Junior takes over, with senior asking guiding questions: "What would happen if...?" "Have you tried...?" "What are the boundaries here?"
3. Debrief: discuss what was found, what was missed, and why

Code Review Walkthroughs

Format: Review a PR together, with the senior explaining what they look for and why.

What to point out:

• "I check the test file first. If there are no tests, that is a red flag."
• "This function has three nested conditionals. That means there are at least 8 paths to test."
• "This database query does not have a limit. What happens with 10 million records?"

Automation Coaching

Format: Build a test together using the driver-navigator pattern.

1. Junior writes the code (driver). Senior guides the approach (navigator).
2. Switch roles after 15-20 minutes.
3. The junior should be driving 70% of the time. The point is for them to build muscle memory.