Kick Start a Robot Automation Framework in Just One Day

Is it possible to learn an automation framework in just one day? While mastering an automation framework in one day is unrealistic, you can grasp the foundations, understand the framework's structure and syntax, and set up a basic project—all within a day.

Why would you do it?

Here are several convincing reasons, but you might have a personal one:

  • You can learn Robot for fun - hackathon
  • Learn Robot out of interest, to expand your horizon
  • Use Robot to automate some work-related tasks
  • Prepare for an interview where you need to know Robot

The Approach

Before we dive in, let me clarify: this is not an in-depth tutorial. The Robot Framework has excellent guides and documentation, and this article is meant to save you time by providing a structured navigation path and guiding you through the most relevant resources.

Setting Up a Project

Step 1: Create a Repository

Start by creating a new GitHub repository and cloning it into a local folder.

Step 2: Familiarize Yourself with the Robot Framework Documentation

The key resource you need is Robot Framework’s official site. The homepage is well-organized, but the most critical sections are GET STARTED and RESOURCES.

Begin by skimming the page—you’ll get a quick overview of what Robot Framework is and what it offers. You can always explore deeper later by following the hyperlinks.

GET STARTED Section

This section has three main tabs:

  • EDITOR tab - first priority, we will spend more time exploring it
  • INSTALL - just a quick overview, for information
  • LEARN - first priority, we will spend more time exploring it

EDITOR Tab

Directly below the tab title, you’ll find a dropdown menu that allows you to navigate through different Robot Framework setup examples—ranging from basic to advanced.

This is the most valuable section as it provides a compact yet comprehensive overview of:

  • The Robot Framework syntax
  • Different types of test files and their structure
  • Various framework setups with examples

INSTALL Tab

This section provides concise installation instructions, along with a link to more detailed guides for different operating systems.

LEARN Tab

Here, you’ll find direct links to essential learning resources. For beginners, I recommend focusing on:

Robot Framework Docs – Key Sections to Focus On

Instead of reading everything, concentrate on Getting Started Guide:

RESOURCES Section

Robot Framework is modular and works with libraries. Some libraries are built-in, while others are externally developed.

LIBRARIES Tab

Here, you’ll find various libraries for:

  • Web, mobile, and API testing
  • Visual testing
  • Database interactions
  • Test data generation

BUILT-IN Tab

This lists the standard libraries that come with Robot Framework.

TOOLS Tab

This section includes tools and IDE integrations. You don’t need to focus on this on your first day, but it’s good to know it exists.

Final Thoughts

This article only scratches the surface, but following this structured guide will help you get started quickly and efficiently.

By the end of the day, you’ll have:

  • A working test automation project
  • A fundamental understanding of Robot Framework
  • A clear direction for further learning

Here’s where you can go next:

Good luck, and happy testing!

Note: critique is welcome as soon as I implement a feedback feature