How to Reuse Test Code in Imported Packages While Keeping Internal Functions Private?

Reusable Test Code in Imported Packages

In the provided scenario, you have a test file (main_test.go) that requires access to a test-only function in another package (pkg1_test.go). This poses the challenge of reusing test code across imported packages.

Possible Solutions and Their Drawbacks:

• Move functions to pkg1.go: This makes the functions available to main_test.go but they may become part of the binary, which is undesirable.
• Use a separate testutility package: While this allows you to group test-only functions, it introduces the dependency on internal methods in pkg1, creating potential problems.

Recommended Solution:

Instead of using either of the above methods, consider the following approach:

1. Create a support package: Move the test-only functions to a new package, called support. This package should rely only on public interfaces of pkg1.
2. Use a support file: In support, define a support file that contains the output of the private function from pkg1.
3. Load support file in support function: In the support package, create a function that loads the support file and performs the necessary operations.
4. **Call support function from main_test.go:** Import the support package in main_test.go and call the function that uses the private function from pkg1`.

This solution:

• Keeps test-only code separate from production code.
• Ensures that the internal function from pkg1 remains private.
• Avoids issues with binary distribution.

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