Usability test might be most frequently encountered mission to a UXer.

Trying to find usage or usability issues? test it. Have an idea of interaction design? test it. Finish partial function in your product? test it.

I’m not going to introduce those methods, I’m here to list several tips I learned from my work, and see if they make sense to you.

Low-Fi will do
Paper prototype can meet your needs. Hi-Fi mockup and prototype can take large amount of work. More feedback might come up with a Hi-Fi mockup, but quick finding and quick review can earn much more value, especially, time.

Don’t talk too much when test
Make a pause when your participants answer your question quick. Stare at them and slightly wrinkle your eyebrows, not a unhappy type, but show a face that you’re trying to think. At the end, they’ll explain more.

Keep the talk till the final stage
Do not underestimate participants’ self-defence atitude. Everyone wants to show their best part to stranger, they may tell lies.
Try to pretend the test is done at the final stage, lay back, and ask about the overall conclusion.
You’ll find more interesting oppinion from them.