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## Introduction

Test everything that could possibly break

--XP maxim

The Boost Test Library provides a matched set of components for writing test programs, organizing tests in to simple test cases and test suites, and controlling their runtime execution. The Program Execution Monitor is also useful in some production (non-test) environments.

### About this documentation

This documentation is not intended to be read though from the beginning to the end by a novice user. You can do that if you are interested in detailed bottom-up description of all Boost.Test components. Otherwise you are better off jumping directly to the subject of your interest. For example, if you are interested in unit testing framework you may go directly there, but for novice users I recommend to start from simple tutorials. Looking for quick help - check FAQ section for resolution to many popular issues you may be faced with. Most pages should link you directly to the terms that you need to understand it. For help with compilation see compilation sections of an appropriate component.

### Release notes

For more details see complete release notes.

### Portability

Because the Boost Test Library is critical for porting and testing Boost libraries, it has been written to be conservative in its use of C++ features, and to keep dependencies to a bare minimum.

Boost.Test supports all main Boost compilers and platforms. Confirmation of its status on core and additional platforms/compilers can be seen by viewing Boost.Test's own internal regression test results on release status page or trunk status page