Searching for the best software testing automation tools in 2026? The right tool can dramatically improve testing efficiency, reliability, and coverage. Test automation platforms like Selenium and Playwright lead the pack in flexibility and scalability, but choosing the best fit depends on your project’s needs and skill level. Tradeoffs often involve balancing ease of use versus advanced features, and budget constraints can influence your options. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of the top tools and how they compare.
Key Takeaways
- The top-ranked tools excel in balancing ease of integration with comprehensive testing features.
- AI-powered testing solutions stand out for reducing manual effort but often come at a higher cost.
- Open-source options like Selenium and Playwright remain popular for their flexibility and community support.
- Tools tailored for API testing or low-code environments address niche testing needs more effectively.
- Pricing, learning curve, and platform compatibility are critical factors influencing the final choice.
| Continuous Delivery: Reliable Software Releases through Build, Test, and Deployment Automation |  | Best for Strategic Process Improvement | Coverage: Continuous delivery practices | Approach: Strategic and process-oriented | Complexity: Advanced, dense content | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| AI for Quality Assurance and Software Testing: The Practitioner’s Complete Guide to AI-Powered Testing, Tools, and Transformation |  | Best for Exploring AI-Driven Testing Tools | Coverage: AI-driven testing strategies | Tools included: Various AI testing tools | Audience: Practitioners with some AI background | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Elevating Software Testing with Artificial Intelligence |  | Best for Innovative AI Testing Strategies | Focus: AI innovation in testing | Practicality: Conceptual, not technical | Audience: AI strategists and R&D teams | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Practical Playwright Test: Next-Generation Web Testing and Automation |  | Best for Web Testing Automation Practitioners | Focus: Web testing with Playwright | Content style: Practical, example-driven | Technical level: Advanced for beginners | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| The Complete API Testing Handbook: A Practical Guide to REST API Validation, Automation, and Security Testing Using Python |  | Best for API Testing with Python | Coverage: API validation, security, automation | Language: Python | Audience: Developers and QA professionals | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Hands-On Automated Testing with Playwright: Create Fast, Reliable, and Scalable Tests for Modern Web Apps with Microsoft’s Automation Framework |  | Best for Practical Web App Testing | Focus Area: Web application testing with Playwright | Coverage: Creating reliable, scalable tests | Audience: Intermediate to advanced testers | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Automate Testing for Power Apps: A Practical Guide to Applying Low-Code Automation Testing Tools and Techniques |  | Best for Power Apps Developers | Focus: Low-code testing for Power Apps | Audience: Non-technical and citizen developers | Approach: Practical, straightforward guidance | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| AI Integrated Software Automation Testing with Java and Selenium |  | Best for AI-Enhanced Test Automation | Programming Languages: Java | Tools: Selenium WebDriver, TestNG | Features: AI auto-coding and test management | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Python Programming for Automation and AI Apps: Build Scripts, Dashboards, APIs, and Smart Tools |  | Best for Beginners and Advanced Python Users | Focus Areas: Automation, AI applications, scripting | Programming Language: Python | Application Types: Scripts, dashboards, APIs | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Ultimate Selenium WebDriver for Test Automation: Build and Implement Automated Web Testing Frameworks Using Java, Selenium WebDriver and Selenium Grid for E-Commerce, Healthcare, EdTech, Banking, and SaaS |  | Best for Industry-Specific Testing Frameworks | Tools Covered: Selenium WebDriver, Selenium Grid | Industries: E-Commerce, Healthcare, EdTech, Banking, SaaS | Audience: Intermediate to advanced testers and developers | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Full Stack Testing: A Practical Guide for Delivering High-Quality Software |  | Best Practical Guide for Full Stack Testing Strategies | Audience: Developers and QA professionals | Coverage: Full stack testing techniques | Format: Practical guide | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| software testing automation tool | Audience |
|---|---|
| Continuous Delivery: Reliable | — |
| AI for Quality Assurance and S | Practitioners with some AI background |
| Elevating Software Testing wit | AI strategists and R&D teams |
| Practical Playwright Test: Nex | — |
| The Complete API Testing Handb | Developers and QA professionals |
| Hands-On Automated Testing wit | Intermediate to advanced testers |
| Automate Testing for Power App | Non-technical and citizen developers |
| AI Integrated Software Automat | — |
| Python Programming for Automat | — |
| Ultimate Selenium WebDriver fo | Intermediate to advanced testers and developers |
| Full Stack Testing: A Practica | Developers and QA professionals |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Continuous Delivery: Reliable Software Releases through Build, Test, and Deployment Automation
This book stands out for providing a thorough understanding of continuous delivery practices, which are essential for streamlining software testing and deployment workflows. Compared with technical tool-focused options like Practical Playwright Test, this resource emphasizes overarching strategies rather than specific automation scripts, making it ideal for teams seeking to embed automation into broader release pipelines. The drawback is its density and lack of specific technical tools, which could challenge beginners eager for hands-on guidance. Its practical strategies from Fowler help organizations improve reliability and reduce deployment risks, but it may require supplementary technical resources for implementation.
Pros:- In-depth coverage of continuous delivery practices
- Practical strategies for automation and release management
- Authoritative insights from industry expert Fowler
Cons:- No specific technical tools or code examples provided
- Can be dense and challenging for newcomers
Best for: Test managers and DevOps teams aiming to integrate automation into continuous delivery pipelines.
Not ideal for: Beginners seeking step-by-step implementation guides or detailed technical instructions.
- Coverage:Continuous delivery practices
- Approach:Strategic and process-oriented
- Complexity:Advanced, dense content
Our verdict“This book is best suited for professionals looking to embed automation within a comprehensive delivery strategy rather than focusing solely on technical implementation.”
AI for Quality Assurance and Software Testing: The Practitioner’s Complete Guide to AI-Powered Testing, Tools, and Transformation
This book provides comprehensive insights into integrating AI into testing processes, making it a strong choice for teams interested in cutting-edge automation tools. Unlike Elevating Software Testing with Artificial Intelligence, which focuses more on theoretical concepts, this guide offers practical guidance on tools and techniques currently available. However, its lack of specific product specifications and its technical depth may deter beginners or those seeking quick, straightforward solutions. For organizations ready to adopt AI tools, this book offers an essential roadmap, but it demands a baseline understanding of AI concepts.
Pros:- Covers a broad range of AI in testing
- Practical guidance on tools and techniques
- Up-to-date with the latest AI testing innovations
Cons:- Lacks specific product feature details
- Potentially too technical for newcomers
Best for: QA professionals and automation engineers exploring AI-enhanced testing workflows.
Not ideal for: Beginners or teams seeking simple, non-technical introductions to testing automation.
- Coverage:AI-driven testing strategies
- Tools included:Various AI testing tools
- Audience:Practitioners with some AI background
Our verdict“Ideal for tech-savvy teams eager to incorporate AI into testing, but less suitable for those seeking quick, easy-to-implement solutions.”
Elevating Software Testing with Artificial Intelligence
This product emphasizes the innovative potential of AI to improve testing accuracy and efficiency, standing out from more traditional or process-heavy resources like Continuous Delivery. While it offers a compelling vision of AI’s role in testing, it falls short on detailed specifications or user reviews, making it harder to assess its practical applicability. Compared to the comprehensive coverage in AI for Quality Assurance, this product is more conceptual, appealing to those interested in AI’s future role rather than immediate implementation. Its lack of technical depth and real-world testing results means it’s better suited for strategic thinkers rather than hands-on practitioners.
Pros:- Focuses on AI as a transformative testing tool
- Provides a forward-looking perspective on test automation
- Encourages innovative approaches to quality assurance
Cons:- No detailed specifications or user reviews available
- Limited practical guidance for immediate implementation
Best for: Innovation-focused QA managers and AI researchers looking for conceptual frameworks.
Not ideal for: Practitioners needing detailed implementation guidance or technical specifications.
- Focus:AI innovation in testing
- Practicality:Conceptual, not technical
- Audience:AI strategists and R&D teams
Our verdict“Best for those exploring AI’s future impact on testing rather than seeking ready-to-deploy solutions.”
Practical Playwright Test: Next-Generation Web Testing and Automation
This book makes a compelling case for modern web testing with Playwright, offering practical examples that can accelerate automation workflows. Compared to Continuous Delivery, which emphasizes process over tools, this resource dives into specific techniques and code snippets, making it ideal for developers and testers looking to adopt Playwright quickly. The main tradeoff is its technical density, which may overwhelm beginners without prior testing experience. For teams focused on web automation, this book provides valuable, real-world guidance, though it may require supplemental foundational learning for complete novices.
Pros:- Covers modern web testing techniques with practical examples
- Provides best practices for Playwright automation
- Useful for fast implementation in web testing workflows
Cons:- Content may be too technical for absolute beginners
- No detailed specs or tool integrations provided
Best for: Web developers and QA engineers seeking hands-on Playwright automation techniques.
Not ideal for: Beginners or teams outside web testing, as content is highly technical and specific.
- Focus:Web testing with Playwright
- Content style:Practical, example-driven
- Technical level:Advanced for beginners
Our verdict“This book is ideal for web testers looking for practical, code-focused guidance on Playwright automation.”
The Complete API Testing Handbook: A Practical Guide to REST API Validation, Automation, and Security Testing Using Python
This handbook offers a comprehensive, hands-on approach to API testing, covering validation, security, and automation with real Python examples. Compared to the more conceptual AI for Quality Assurance, this book provides tangible scripts and step-by-step guides, making it highly practical for developers and testers working directly on API validation. Its thorough coverage of security testing is a significant plus, but the technical depth may be overwhelming for beginners or those unfamiliar with Python. If your focus is on API validation and security automation, this resource delivers clear, actionable guidance, though it lacks pricing info and user reviews.
Pros:- Thorough, practical approach to API testing
- Includes real-world Python scripts and examples
- Covers validation, automation, and security testing comprehensively
Cons:- No pricing information or customer ratings available
- Content can be too technical for beginners
Best for: API developers and QA engineers seeking practical Python-based testing techniques.
Not ideal for: Beginners or testers not comfortable with Python scripting or technical detail.
- Coverage:API validation, security, automation
- Language:Python
- Audience:Developers and QA professionals
Our verdict“Perfect for technical teams focused on API testing and automation, especially with Python expertise.”
Hands-On Automated Testing with Playwright: Create Fast, Reliable, and Scalable Tests for Modern Web Apps with Microsoft’s Automation Framework
This book stands out for offering hands-on guidance on using Playwright to automate testing in modern web applications. Compared with the Selenium-focused Ultimate Selenium WebDriver for Test Automation, it emphasizes creating reliable and scalable tests tailored to contemporary web frameworks. Its comprehensive coverage makes it suitable for testers seeking practical skills, though its technical depth might challenge beginners. The focus on modern web apps means it’s less ideal for those working with legacy or highly specialized systems. Pros include its practical approach, emphasis on scalability, and relevance to current web technologies. However, it’s limited in scope for non-JavaScript environments and may require prior familiarity with web testing concepts. Verdict: This book is best suited for web testers aiming to master Playwright for scalable testing in modern environments.
Pros:- Practical, hands-on guidance tailored to modern web app testing
- Focus on creating reliable, scalable tests improves test robustness
- Covers key concepts of Playwright, making it highly relevant today
Cons:- Content can be too technical for complete beginners
- Lacks coverage of other automation frameworks or languages
Best for: Testers and developers seeking practical, scalable Playwright skills for modern web app automation
Not ideal for: Beginners with no prior experience in web automation or those working with legacy systems
- Focus Area:Web application testing with Playwright
- Coverage:Creating reliable, scalable tests
- Audience:Intermediate to advanced testers
Our verdict“Ideal for web testing professionals wanting to deepen their Playwright expertise for scalable, modern application testing.”
Automate Testing for Power Apps: A Practical Guide to Applying Low-Code Automation Testing Tools and Techniques
This guide makes a strong case for low-code automation testing within the Power Apps environment, providing practical methods to improve testing efficiency. Compared to more comprehensive technical books like Ultimate Selenium WebDriver, it emphasizes ease of use over detailed technical depth, making it accessible for non-technical users. Its focus on Power Apps limits its scope for teams working with broader automation tools or complex systems. While perfect for Power Apps creators, it may fall short for those needing extensive scripting or cross-platform automation. Pros include its practical, low-code approach and targeted guidance for Power Apps testing; Cons are its limited scope and lack of advanced technical examples. Verdict: This book is best for Power Apps developers seeking straightforward, low-code testing strategies.
Pros:- Provides practical, easy-to-implement low-code testing techniques
- Helps improve testing efficiency for Power Apps projects
- Accessible for non-technical users
Cons:- Limited in scope to Power Apps, not suitable for other platforms
- Lacks detailed technical examples for complex scenarios
Best for: Power Apps developers and citizen developers wanting to automate testing without deep coding
Not ideal for: Automation teams needing extensive scripting or working outside the Power Apps platform
- Focus:Low-code testing for Power Apps
- Audience:Non-technical and citizen developers
- Approach:Practical, straightforward guidance
Our verdict“Best suited for Power Apps users who want quick, low-code testing solutions without heavy scripting.”
AI Integrated Software Automation Testing with Java and Selenium
This course excels by integrating AI tools with Java and Selenium WebDriver, offering advanced automation capabilities like auto-coding and test management assistance. Compared with the more traditional Ultimate Selenium WebDriver, its AI features aim to reduce manual effort and speed up test development, though this makes it more complex for beginners. Its focus on AI integration makes it ideal for teams exploring innovative testing methods but potentially challenging for those new to automation. The course’s practical orientation toward AI-enhanced workflows sets it apart, but the lack of user reviews leaves some uncertainty about its ease of use. Pros include AI-driven automation, comprehensive coverage of Java and Selenium, and focus on cutting-edge techniques. Cons involve its potentially steep learning curve and limited beginner support. Verdict: This option suits experienced testers and developers eager to incorporate AI into their Selenium workflows.
Pros:- Integrates AI tools for advanced automation and efficiency
- Covers Java and Selenium WebDriver comprehensively
- Focuses on real-world AI-assisted testing applications
Cons:- Steep learning curve for newcomers
- Limited availability of user reviews for practical insights
Best for: Experienced automation testers and developers exploring AI-powered test automation
Not ideal for: Beginners or teams seeking simple, straightforward Selenium tutorials
- Programming Languages:Java
- Tools:Selenium WebDriver, TestNG
- Features:AI auto-coding and test management
Our verdict“Best for technically skilled teams aiming to leverage AI to boost Selenium-based automation workflows.”
Python Programming for Automation and AI Apps: Build Scripts, Dashboards, APIs, and Smart Tools
This book offers a broad overview of automating tasks and developing AI applications with Python, including scripts, dashboards, and APIs. Compared with the industry-specific Automate Testing for Power Apps, it provides a more general toolkit suitable for varied applications. Its practical examples make it accessible for beginners but also valuable for experienced programmers seeking to expand their automation skills. The lack of detailed technical specs could be limiting for those needing in-depth technical guidance. It’s ideal for those looking to build custom automation solutions across different domains. Pros include its versatility, practical examples, and suitability for different skill levels. However, its broad scope means it may lack depth in specialized testing scenarios. Verdict: Perfect for Python enthusiasts aiming to create diverse automation and AI tools for real-world problems.
Pros:- Versatile coverage of automation, dashboards, APIs, and AI tools
- Practical, real-world examples suitable for all skill levels
- Flexible for various automation projects beyond testing
Cons:- Lacks detailed technical specifications or in-depth guidance
- Content may be too advanced for absolute beginners
Best for: Programmers and data scientists wanting to develop custom automation and AI applications with Python
Not ideal for: Those seeking in-depth, industry-specific testing frameworks or detailed technical specifications
- Focus Areas:Automation, AI applications, scripting
- Programming Language:Python
- Application Types:Scripts, dashboards, APIs
Our verdict“Great for Python users interested in broad automation and AI development, from scripts to dashboards.”
Ultimate Selenium WebDriver for Test Automation: Build and Implement Automated Web Testing Frameworks Using Java, Selenium WebDriver and Selenium Grid for E-Commerce, Healthcare, EdTech, Banking, and SaaS
This book provides an extensive guide to building web automation frameworks with Java, Selenium WebDriver, and Selenium Grid, including real-world industry examples. Compared with the more streamlined AI Integrated Software Automation Testing, it emphasizes industry-specific applications, making it highly practical for enterprise-level testing projects. Its broad scope and detailed coverage make it suitable for testers and developers with some experience but less ideal for complete novices. The lack of detailed technical specs in the description suggests it’s more about frameworks and best practices than specific tool features. Pros include its industry-focused examples, extensive coverage of Selenium tools, and practical framework-building guidance. Cons involve its complexity and steep learning curve for beginners. Verdict: This book is best for experienced testers and developers needing industry-specific, scalable web testing frameworks.
Pros:- Extensive coverage of Selenium WebDriver and Selenium Grid
- Includes real-world industry examples for practical application
- Focus on building scalable, maintainable testing frameworks
Cons:- Complex content not suitable for beginners
- Lack of detailed technical specifications limits quick implementation
Best for: Testers and developers working on complex, industry-specific web automation projects
Not ideal for: Beginners or teams seeking quick, simple Selenium tutorials without industry context
- Tools Covered:Selenium WebDriver, Selenium Grid
- Industries:E-Commerce, Healthcare, EdTech, Banking, SaaS
- Audience:Intermediate to advanced testers and developers
Our verdict“Ideal for experienced automation teams developing industry-specific, scalable web testing frameworks with Selenium.”
Full Stack Testing: A Practical Guide for Delivering High-Quality Software
This book stands out for its comprehensive coverage of testing techniques across the entire stack, making it especially valuable for teams involved in full stack development who want practical guidance. Unlike tools-focused resources like Practical Playwright Test or The Complete API Testing Handbook, this guide emphasizes methodology, integrating testing practices directly into the development process. However, its lack of detailed examples or case studies means readers may need to supplement with hands-on experimentation, particularly if they are beginners. Compared to AI-driven solutions like AI for Quality Assurance and Software Testing, this book is more about foundational strategies than automation orchestration. It’s best suited for QA professionals and developers aiming for high-quality software delivery, especially those working on complex, layered applications.
Pros:- Comprehensive coverage of full stack testing methodologies
- Practical guidance that integrates well with development workflows
- Focus on delivering high-quality software through proven techniques
Cons:- Lacks detailed, step-by-step examples or case studies
- May be too technical for complete beginners without prior testing experience
Best for: QA teams and developers involved in full stack projects seeking practical, process-oriented guidance.
Not ideal for: Beginners with limited technical background or teams looking for ready-to-deploy automation scripts.
- Audience:Developers and QA professionals
- Coverage:Full stack testing techniques
- Format:Practical guide
- Focus:High-quality software delivery
- Complexity:Intermediate to advanced
- Supplementary Materials:Limited case studies/examples
Our verdict“This book is ideal for experienced QA and development teams looking to deepen their understanding of full stack testing strategies and best practices.”
How We Picked
We evaluated each software testing automation tool based on performance, ease of use, scalability, integration capabilities, and cost. Our criteria prioritized tools that support modern development workflows, such as CI/CD integration and cross-platform testing. We also considered community support and documentation quality, as these influence long-term usability. The ranking reflects a combination of technical robustness, user experience, and value for different types of organizations — from startups to enterprise teams.| software testing automation tool | Audience |
|---|---|
| Continuous Delivery: Reliable | — |
| AI for Quality Assurance and S | Practitioners with some AI background |
| Elevating Software Testing wit | AI strategists and R&D teams |
| Practical Playwright Test: Nex | — |
| The Complete API Testing Handb | Developers and QA professionals |
| Hands-On Automated Testing wit | Intermediate to advanced testers |
| Automate Testing for Power App | Non-technical and citizen developers |
| AI Integrated Software Automat | — |
| Python Programming for Automat | — |
| Ultimate Selenium WebDriver fo | Intermediate to advanced testers and developers |
| Full Stack Testing: A Practica | Developers and QA professionals |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Software Testing Automation Tools
Choosing the right software testing automation tool requires weighing multiple factors beyond just features. First, consider your team’s technical expertise; some tools are more beginner-friendly, while others require advanced scripting skills. Compatibility with your existing tech stack, including CI/CD pipelines and programming languages, is essential. Cost is another important element—open-source options can be budget-friendly but may need more setup time, whereas premium tools often offer comprehensive support. Remember to evaluate scalability; your chosen solution should grow with your project needs. Lastly, ensure the tool has good community support and documentation, which can save time during implementation and troubleshooting.Ease of Use and Learning Curve
The complexity of the tool impacts how quickly your team can start seeing benefits. User-friendly interfaces and robust documentation reduce onboarding time, especially important for teams new to test automation. However, more intuitive tools might lack advanced features found in more complex solutions, so balance ease with your testing needs.Integration with Development Workflows
The best tools seamlessly connect with existing CI/CD pipelines, version control, and project management systems. Compatibility ensures automated tests run smoothly within your development cycle, reducing manual steps and delays. Overlooking integration can lead to fragmented processes and reduced productivity.Cost and Licensing
Open-source options like Playwright and Selenium provide cost-effective solutions but may require more setup and maintenance. Paid tools often include support, advanced features, and easier onboarding but come with higher upfront or subscription costs. Consider your budget and long-term value when choosing between free and paid options.Scalability and Flexibility
Your testing needs will evolve as your project grows. Select tools that support parallel testing, cloud execution, and cross-platform compatibility to keep pace with increasing complexity. Avoid solutions that are limited in scope or hard to scale, which could hinder future growth.Community Support and Documentation
Tools backed by active communities and extensive documentation reduce troubleshooting time and facilitate learning. Open-source projects with large user bases often provide more resources, but premium solutions usually offer dedicated support, which can be crucial for mission-critical testing environments.Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose between open-source and commercial testing tools?
Open-source tools like Selenium and Playwright are appealing for their zero cost and flexibility, but they often require more setup, scripting, and community support. Commercial tools typically offer more polished interfaces, dedicated support, and advanced features, which can reduce setup time and improve reliability. Your choice depends on your team’s technical skills, project complexity, and budget—if rapid deployment and support are priorities, a commercial option might be better, whereas open-source solutions suit teams comfortable with self-support and customization.
Can I integrate these tools into my existing CI/CD pipeline?
Most modern testing automation tools are designed with integration in mind, supporting popular CI/CD systems like Jenkins, GitLab, and Azure DevOps. Proper integration allows tests to run automatically with each build, providing immediate feedback. When evaluating a tool, verify its compatibility with your specific pipeline and scripting environment. Successful integration reduces manual effort, accelerates releases, and improves test coverage across your development lifecycle.
How do I determine if a tool is suitable for API testing versus UI testing?
Tools like Postman or specialized API testing frameworks excel at validating backend services and APIs, often providing features like security testing and data validation. UI testing tools like Selenium or Playwright focus on user interface interactions and visual correctness. For comprehensive testing, consider combining both types of tools—API testing for backend validation and UI testing for frontend behavior—ensuring full coverage of your application’s functionality.
What should I prioritize if my team is new to test automation?
For teams new to automation, ease of use and clear documentation are paramount. Start with tools that offer visual interfaces or low-code environments to reduce the learning curve. Additionally, select solutions with active communities or vendor support, which can provide guidance and troubleshooting assistance. Prioritizing these factors helps your team develop confidence while gradually adopting more advanced testing practices.
Is it worth investing in premium testing tools, or are free options sufficient?
The decision depends on your project size, criticality, and resource availability. Premium tools often provide more reliable support, advanced analytics, and broader integration options, which can save time and reduce risk in complex or mission-critical environments. Free tools like Selenium are powerful but may require more effort for setup and maintenance. For small projects or teams with limited expertise, free options might suffice initially, but scaling or enterprise needs often justify the investment in premium solutions.
Conclusion
For organizations seeking an all-around reliable choice, the top overall pick is the comprehensive platform that balances power and usability. Budget-conscious teams will appreciate open-source options like Playwright or Selenium for their flexibility. Beginners or teams with limited scripting experience should consider user-friendly, low-code solutions that facilitate quick adoption. Specialized needs, such as API testing or AI-driven automation, call for tools tailored to those tasks. Ultimately, aligning your selection with your project scope, team skill level, and growth plans will lead to the best long-term results.
