How does pytest_runtest_setup work in Pytest?

I’m trying to understand how to use the pytest_runtest_setup method in a Pytest project. I’m setting up tests and want to ensure each test has the proper setup before execution. Can anyone explain how this method works and possibly share a simple example?

Hey! The pytest_runtest_setup is a hook function that runs before each test in Pytest. You can use it to set up necessary conditions or configurations specific to your tests. For instance, you might want to initialize some data structures or mock certain functions. Just define the function in your conftest.py, and it gets called automatically. Make sure your setup logic is efficient to avoid slowing down your test suite.

From my experience, pytest_runtest_setup is a great way to prep your environment before each test case. I’ve used it to ensure that certain database states are reset or that necessary files are in the correct state. I’d suggest defining this function globally if it needs to be consistent across tests or within specific modules for targeted setups. Keep an eye on performance, as extensive setups can increase test time.

I’ve found that pytest_runtest_setup is valuable for setups that need to be repeated for each test in a session. For instance, when testing APIs, I set headers or clean up cookies here. Add your logic to conftest.py, and Pytest will automatically call it before running tests. If your setup varies significantly between tests, consider breaking it down into helper functions for better manageability and readability.