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Text Boxes

Text boxes are the most commonly used web elements in any application. They are used for login forms, search fields, registrations, and data entry.

Mastering text box handling is fundamental to Selenium automation.

What is a Text Box?​

A text box is typically an <input> or <textarea> element that allows users to enter text.

Common examples:

  • Username
  • Password
  • Search field
  • Address field

Locating Text Boxes​

Text boxes are usually located using:

  • id (preferred)
  • name
  • cssSelector
  • xpath
WebElement username = driver.findElement(By.id("username"));

Entering Text using sendKeys()​

username.sendKeys("admin");

Clearing Existing Text​

username.clear();
username.sendKeys("newUser");

Keyboard Actions with Text Boxes​

username.sendKeys(Keys.TAB);
username.sendKeys(Keys.ENTER);

Reading Text Box Values​

String value = username.getAttribute("value");

Password Fields​

Password fields behave like normal text boxes.

Common Mistakes ❌​

  • Using getText() on input fields
  • Not clearing existing text

Best Practices ✅​

  • Always clear before typing
  • Use getAttribute("value") for validation