setup.cfg configuration in PyTest - Cheat Sheet & Quick Revision

Recall & Review

beginner

What is the purpose of the setup.cfg file in pytest?

The setup.cfg file is used to configure pytest settings and options in a simple, declarative way without needing command-line arguments.

beginner

How do you specify the directory where pytest should look for tests in setup.cfg?

You can specify the test directory using the testpaths option under the [tool:pytest] section, for example:<br>

[tool:pytest]
testpaths = tests

beginner

What section header is used in setup.cfg to configure pytest options?

The section header is [tool:pytest]. All pytest options go under this section.

intermediate

How can you add command-line options like --maxfail=2 and -v in setup.cfg?

Use the addopts option under [tool:pytest], for example:<br>

[tool:pytest]
addopts = -v --maxfail=2

beginner

Why is using setup.cfg for pytest configuration better than passing options via command line every time?

It keeps configuration consistent and reusable across runs and team members, avoids mistakes from missing options, and makes automation easier.

Which section header is correct for pytest settings in setup.cfg?

A [pytest]

B [tool:pytest]

C [pytest-config]

D [tool:python]

The correct section header for pytest configuration in setup.cfg is [tool:pytest].

How do you tell pytest to look for tests in the tests folder using setup.cfg?

A tests_folder = tests

B testdir = tests

C testpaths = tests

D test_location = tests

The option testpaths specifies directories where pytest looks for tests.

What does the addopts option do in setup.cfg?

A Adds extra command-line options to pytest runs

B Specifies the test file extensions

C Defines the Python version to use

D Sets the test timeout duration

addopts lets you add command-line options like -v or --maxfail=2 in the config file.

If you want pytest to stop after 1 failure, how do you set this in setup.cfg?

A addopts = --maxfail=1

B maxfail = 1

C failfast = true

D stop_after_fail = 1

You use addopts = --maxfail=1 to tell pytest to stop after one failure.

Why might teams prefer setup.cfg over command-line options for pytest?

A It runs tests faster

B It disables all warnings

C It automatically fixes test failures

D It ensures consistent test settings for everyone

Using setup.cfg keeps test settings consistent and avoids forgetting options.

Explain how to configure pytest to run tests in a specific folder and add verbose output using setup.cfg.

Think about the section header and the two main options for paths and extra command-line flags.

Describe the benefits of using setup.cfg for pytest configuration instead of command-line arguments.

Consider how configuration files help teams and automation.