Entering the world of automation testing comes with its share of potential pitfalls, and novice testers can benefit significantly from understanding and avoiding common mistakes. Over-automation without necessity, poorly defined test scope, and unsuitable tool selection can lead to inefficient testing processes. Coordination among team members and a clear return on investment strategy are crucial for successful test automation, as is the careful selection of open-source tools with strong community support. Codeless automation tools may serve as an introductory step, but developing coding skills is essential for tackling complex testing challenges. Effective test design, awareness of false positives and negatives, and a focus on code reusability can enhance testing efficiency. The misconception of achieving 100% automation should be dispelled in favor of a more strategic approach that incorporates exploratory testing and begins with smaller modules. Designing tests that are impervious to UI changes ensures that tests remain effective despite software evolution. By learning from these experiences, testers can avoid costly errors and contribute more effectively to their teams.