Generic tests with parameters in dbt - Cheat Sheet & Quick Revision

Recall & Review

beginner

What is a generic test in dbt?

A generic test in dbt is a reusable test that can be applied to different columns or tables by passing parameters. It helps avoid writing the same test logic multiple times.

beginner

How do you pass parameters to a generic test in dbt?

You pass parameters to a generic test by specifying them in the test call using the 'args' syntax or directly in the test configuration in your schema.yml file.

beginner

Why use parameters in generic tests?

Parameters make generic tests flexible and reusable. You can test different columns or conditions without rewriting the test logic each time.

intermediate

Example: What does this dbt test do? <br>

test_name:
  column_name: id
  where: "status = 'active'"

This test runs on the 'id' column but only checks rows where the status is 'active'. The 'where' parameter filters the data before testing.

beginner

What is the benefit of using generic tests with parameters in a data project?

They save time and reduce errors by reusing test logic. They also make tests easier to maintain and adapt as data changes.

What is the main purpose of a generic test in dbt?

A To reuse test logic with different parameters

B To create a new table

C To load data into the warehouse

D To write SQL queries manually

Generic tests allow you to reuse the same test logic by passing different parameters.

How do you specify which column a generic test should run on?

A By editing the test SQL file directly

B By changing the database schema

C By passing the column name as a parameter

D By renaming the model

You pass the column name as a parameter to tell the generic test which column to check.

Which parameter can you use to filter rows before running a generic test?

A order_by

B limit

C group_by

D where

The 'where' parameter filters rows so the test only runs on a subset of data.

What happens if you do not pass parameters to a generic test?

A The test runs with default settings or may fail if required parameters are missing

B The test creates a new model

C The test automatically passes

D The test deletes data

Generic tests need parameters to know what to test; without them, they may use defaults or error out.

Why is it better to use generic tests with parameters instead of writing many specific tests?

A It hides errors

B It reduces code duplication and makes maintenance easier

C It requires more storage space

D It makes the project slower

Using generic tests avoids repeating code and helps keep tests consistent and easier to update.

Explain how generic tests with parameters improve testing in dbt projects.

Think about how passing different inputs to one test saves time.

Describe how you would use the 'where' parameter in a generic test and why it is useful.

Consider testing only active users or recent data.