Refactoring code to avoid using Mockito's `reset()` method often involves improving the design of the tests and the code under test. Here are some strategies and examples to help you refactor your code effectively:
1. Avoid Overly Complex Test Scenarios**
Instead of resetting mocks to handle multiple scenarios in a single test, break down your tests into smaller, focused scenarios. This approach ensures that each test has a clear purpose and reduces the need for resetting mocks.
Before:
java
@Test
public void testMultipleScenarios() {
// Setup mock
MyService myService = mock(MyService.class);
when(myService.doSomething()).thenReturn("Result1");
// Test scenario 1
assertEquals("Result1", myService.doSomething());
// Reset mock for scenario 2
reset(myService);
when(myService.doSomething()).thenReturn("Result2");
// Test scenario 2
assertEquals("Result2", myService.doSomething());
}
After:
java
@Test
public void testScenario1() {
MyService myService = mock(MyService.class);
when(myService.doSomething()).thenReturn("Result1");
assertEquals("Result1", myService.doSomething());
}
@Test
public void testScenario2() {
MyService myService = mock(MyService.class);
when(myService.doSomething()).thenReturn("Result2");
assertEquals("Result2", myService.doSomething());
}
2. Use `clearInvocations()` Instead of `reset()`**
If you need to clear the invocation history of a mock without resetting its stubbing, use `Mockito.clearInvocations()`. This method is useful when you want to verify interactions multiple times in the same test.
java
@Test
public void testClearInvocations() {
MyService myService = mock(MyService.class);
when(myService.doSomething()).thenReturn("Result");
// Perform some actions
myService.doSomething();
// Clear invocations
clearInvocations(myService);
// Perform more actions
myService.doSomething();
// Verify interactions
verify(myService, times(1)).doSomething(); // Only counts the second call
}
3. Refactor Code to Reduce Mocking**
Sometimes, the need for `reset()` arises from overly complex code that requires extensive mocking. Refactor your code to reduce dependencies and make it more testable. For example, instead of mocking a complex object, consider creating a testable wrapper or interface.
Before:
java
public class ComplexService {
public void doComplexOperation() {
// Complex logic involving multiple dependencies
}
}
After:
java
public interface OperationInterface {
void performOperation();
}
public class ComplexService {
private final OperationInterface operation;
public ComplexService(OperationInterface operation) {
this.operation = operation;
}
public void doComplexOperation() {
operation.performOperation();
}
}
In tests, you can then easily mock `OperationInterface` without needing to reset it.
java
@Test
public void testComplexOperation() {
OperationInterface operation = mock(OperationInterface.class);
ComplexService service = new ComplexService(operation);
service.doComplexOperation();
verify(operation).performOperation();
}
4. Use Strict Stubs**
Using strict stubs can help ensure that your tests fail early if unexpected methods are called, reducing the need for `reset()`. This approach encourages cleaner test code by enforcing that only stubbed methods are called.
java
@Rule
public MockitoRule rule = MockitoJUnit.rule().strictness(Strictness.STRICT_STUBS);
@Test
public void testWithStrictStubs() {
MyService myService = mock(MyService.class);
when(myService.doSomething()).thenReturn("Result");
// Attempting to call an unstubbed method will throw an exception
myService.doSomethingElse(); // Throws PotentialStubbingProblem
}
By following these strategies, you can write more focused, maintainable tests that avoid the need for Mockito's `reset()` method.
Citations:[1] https://www.lambdatest.com/automation-testing-advisor/selenium/methods/org.mockito.Mockito.reset
[2] https://stackoverflow.com/questions/32873928/effects-of-mockito-mocks-on-unit-tests-when-refactoring
[3] https://www.vogella.com/tutorials/Mockito/article.html
[4] https://softwareengineering.stackexchange.com/questions/188299/is-this-an-appropriate-use-of-mockitos-reset-method
[5] https://mestachs.wordpress.com/2012/07/09/mockito-best-practices/
[6] https://www.reddit.com/r/java/comments/wpe5fe/what_is_your_goto_solution_for_resetting_a/
[7] https://reflectoring.io/clean-unit-tests-with-mockito/
[8] https://docs.openrewrite.org/recipes/java/testing/mockito